News

Carers Week, June 7-13

West Sussex County Council report that over 100,000 people are thought to be regularly caring for a friend or family member in West Sussex, so this Carers Week, running from June 7 – 13, it’s more important than ever to raise awareness and shine a spotlight on the information and services available to family and friend carers across the county.

Backed by West Sussex County Council, the NHS and West Sussex charity, Carers Support West Sussex, there’s plenty on offer to help those looking after friends and family. With more than 29,000 carers currently registered in West Sussex, including young carers, young adult carers and adult carers, this is still only a fraction of the estimated number of family and friend carers believed to be living in West Sussex. Carers Support West Sussex are urging those not yet registered to sign up to access the support they may require now or in the future.

This year, family and friend carers are continuing to face new challenges because of the Covid-19 pandemic, with many taking on more caring responsibilities for their relatives and friends who are disabled, ill or older and who need support.

As part of Carers Week, Carers Support West Sussex has put together a programme of carer focused workshops, where attendees will have the opportunity to:

  • Learn something new or improve knowledge;
  • Virtually meet others in a similar situation and have a chance to socialise;
  • Have a break from caring roles.

A majority of these are online classes, but if you are able, there are also picnics taking place at Parham House in Pulborough, Swanbourne Lake in Arundel and a coastal walk starting in Ferring. To find out more, visit https://www.carerssupport.org.uk/carers-week