Helping hand on offer for Carers’ Rights Day

Helping hand on offer for Carers’ Rights Day

Carers who want to know more about the range of support available in Rochdale borough are being urged to drop into The Carers’ Resource this Friday (29 November) as it marks Carers’ Rights Day.

Based at the Newbold building in Oldham Road, the carers’ resource offers all kinds of help, advice and support as well giving visitors a chance to meet and talk to other carers.

The event is about getting carers the information and advice they need to claim benefits, access practical support and find out how technology can take the pressure off.

Over 2,000 people already access the carers’ resource but is it estimated that 21,000 more people in the borough may be eligible for their support.

The event is open not just to registered carers, but also to those who look after a friend or relative but may not already be accessing support through the carers’ resource. Anyone who knows a carer is also welcome to come and find out what support they can access.

Among other things, the day aims to:

• Let carers know what benefits and services they may be entitled to and increase the take up of benefits. 
• Pensions and savings.
• Legal advice on wills, trusts and power of attorney.
• Council tax and housing benefit. 
• Careline and other telecare and telehealth items. 
• Advice on Carers Assessments, and carer breaks. 
• Offer advice on jobs, employment and training. 

Councillor Jean Hornby, Cabinet Member for Adult Care at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “There is a whole army of carers in our borough who work incredibly hard day in day out to care for their loved ones and many are not accessing the support they need. I’d encourage carers to come down and take advantage of this opportunity and we also welcome new faces. Even if you help a relative for an hour or so after work, you could still get help from the carers’ resource.”

The carers’ resource is at the Newbold building, 35-37 Oldham Road. Friday’s event takes place from 10am to 2pm. Anyone who would like to contact the Carer’s Resource can call 01706 925 808.