Carers offered advice and help on their rights

The morning, which was organised by the carers charity Carers Matter, was planned to highlight the issues of Carers Rights Day on Friday, November 29.

The morning offered advice and practical help regarding rights for unpaid or family carers.

Carers Matter is a local charity supporting carers through a range of emotional and practical help including a telephone helpline and signposting to specialist organisations as well as regular newsletters and information on the website.

Patricia Jordan, manager of Carers Matter, stressed the importance of making sure carers know their rights

She said: “Carers are the backbone of our society and it is important that they receive help. Many don’t identify themselves as carers and miss out on support, even those who have been caring for years sometimes aren’t aware of their entitlement.”

The event was opened by Craigavon Deputy Mayor, Councillor Colin McCusker, who welcomed the carers to the event.

Over 30 information stands were available from a variety of health, community and statutory organisations including the Alzheimer’s Society and Autism organisations through to Warm Homes and Walker and MacDonald Solicitors who gave advice on Power of Attorney and wills.

Information also included carers financial and consumer rights and issues such as changes to benefits, rights when travelling or flying with a disabled person, debt advice, tax credits information, direct payments for care and free benefits checks.

Donna Stewart, Chair of Carers Matter said: “Carers are often very unaware of where to find out all the information and help they need in their caring role. Their stressful lives mean they are often short of time to search.

“It was invaluable to have so many of those organisations coming along to our event to provide all this information for Carers together in one place.”

Any carer who would like more information can contact the Carers Matter Helpline on 028 4062 7581 or visit the website www.carersmatter.com