Carers Support West Sussex backs national campaign to make caring visible and valued

Carers Support West Sussex is supporting Carers Week 2022, which aims to make caring visible, valued and supported

Sonia Mangan, CEO at CSWS, says: ‘As some of you may know, the COVID-19 pandemic had a monumental impact on unpaid family and friend carers’ lives – not only because of the increased amount of care that many provided, but because of the far-reaching effect that providing this level of care has had on unpaid carers.

‘Many people also took on new caring responsibilities for their relatives and friends who are disabled, ill or older and who need support.

‘We want carers, and the work they do, to be recognised and appreciated. And we want people who don’t think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.

Carers Support West Sussex CEO Sonia Mangan

‘That’s why we’re participating in the national Carers Week 2022 campaign to make caring visible, valued and supported – spreading the word, and with some local carer events.

‘We’re here for the carers looking after husbands, wives, partners, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, children, extended family members, and friends.

‘We’re here for the carers caring for an autistic adult, or someone with dementia and memory loss, or drug and alcohol issues, or a learning disability, or mental health problems.

‘We’re here for the parent carers, the young adult carers, and carers from all communities, of all faiths.

‘We know being a carer can be challenging sometimes, as well as rewarding. We know many carers wish for more time for themselves. We know many need some help with funds and grants. We know some need help with their own physical and mental health.

‘We can help with those things, and with information, guidance, and practical and emotional support. We have more than 30,000 carers registered with us; but we also know there are more than 90,000 carers across this glorious county who aren’t registered.

‘So, if you’re one of the 90,000 and you think we might be able to help you, or someone you care for, get in touch. You can also see more about our Carers Week activities at www.carerssupport.org.uk.