Carers event at Braid Valley

BRAID Valley Hospital was at the forefront of a significant event last week.

During Careers Week the Northern Trust was actively promoting the importance of carers taking care of themselves.

Anne Cummings, Carers Co-ordinator in the Trust, was on hand at Braid Valley Hospital and all the hospitals in the Trust to highlight this message to hospital staff and the general public.

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There are around 185,000 carers in Northern Ireland who provide care and support to ill, frail or disabled friends or family members. They are not paid and often work without support. People from all walks of life and backgrounds are carers.

Anne said: "Every year nearly 69,000 people in Northern Ireland become carers when they find themselves looking after a loved one who is frail, ill or disabled.

"A carer is anyone who provides regular and substantial care for a family member, friend or neighbour who is unable to care for themselves. The problem is that most people who look after others do not think of themselves as carers. It may happen gradually, or they take it as part of normal family life. Many people simply do not know what help is available or how to find their way through filling out complex forms.

"Research shows that carers are more likely than non-carers to report high levels of psychological distress causing anxiety, depression and loss of confidence and self-esteem. Older carers are more likely to be caring over a longer period of time and many report a chronic illness or disability.

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"I am keen to make contact with carers in the Trust area to make sure they are aware of the services that are available to them and to offer information regarding local carers support groups."

Anne is based at the Route Complex in Ballymoney and can be contacted on 2766 1392 or [email protected]

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