Tom Brake Backs Initiative to Highlight the Plight of Carers

9.42.10am BST (GMT +0100) Sat 31st May 2008

Supported by MPs, celebrities, local stakeholders and thousands of carers across the UK, Carers Week (9-15 June) aims to publicise that support, advice and practical help is available for those who may be feeling isolated, exhausted or ill as a result of their caring responsibilities.

Tom Brake says: "The UK has six million carers, including many here in Carshalton and Wallington. I am happy to offer them my support. The lack of awareness of the help that is out there is a national problem that affects so many people at a local level. We must do our utmost to get the message out to hard-working and often hard-pressed carers that help and support is available.

"Carers Week is about making sure many more of my constituents, who spend their lives looking after others, realise they are not alone and that help is available for them as well."

Tom Brake MP has also signed up to a parliamentary motion (EDM 1369) which publicises the fact that large numbers of carers are not known to statutory agencies, and their health needs are often overlooked.

• Carers Week is a partnership of 10 UK-wide charities working together; Carers UK, Counsel and Care; Crossroads Caring for Carers, Help the Hospices, Independent Age, Macmillan Cancer Support, MS Society, Neurological Alliance, The Princess Royal Trust for Carers and WRVS

• For more information about Carers Week, please visit www.carersweek.org