Durkan praises thousands of carers in Londonderry area

THOUSANDS of carers in Londonderry should be recognised by the local community with more than three-quarters (76 per cent) of people looking after an ill, frail or disabled loved one saying they do not have a life outside of their caring role.
By The Newsroom
Published 24th Jun 2010, 11:06 BST

Thus said SDLP MP Mark Durkan reacting to statistics that also highlight that 75 per cent of carers say they have lost touch with family and friends, while 4 out of 5 are worse off financially because of their caring role.

Mr Durkan is backing a Carers Week's "A life of my own" campaign, which calls for carers to receive greater recognition for their work. In doing so, the Foyle MP has paid tribute to all local carers, and urged that they receive more support in their caring roles.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He said: "Whether the chance to have a long bath or a full night's sleep - these are luxuries for many of the thousands of carers in Derry. "They deserve to be recognised for the priceless contribution they make to their loved ones, to our local community and to society at large.

"I am supporting Carers Week and want to express my respect and gratitude to all our carers. I want to ensure that those who feel isolated or lonely because of caring learn about the services and support out there to help them."

For more information about local events and activities taking place as part of Carers Week, visit www.carersweek.org or call 0845 241 2582.

Related topics:SDLPDerry