"Secret army" of carers

Whether it's getting someone dressed each morning, helping with the weekly food shopping or just offering regular company and a bit of emotional support '“ a carer gives long-term, unpaid assistance to someone who is ill, frail or disabled.

Altogether, carers save the UK 57 billion in health and social care costs each year: the equivalent of a second NHS.

East Sussex County Council wants to celebrate this enormous contribution, as part of national Carers Week (June 6th -14th).

Cllr Bill Bentley, lead member for Adult Social Care, said: "Many people don't think of themselves as carers. They are just trying to do the right thing, and if that means looking after mum, or dad, or even a next door neighbour '“ then that's what they are going to do. They don't always know that support is available.

"Being a carer shouldn't mean you have to sacrifice your career, your family life, or your health. Yet, this is the reality for many '“ and we need to put it right. Please help me spread the word! Anyone who is a carer is entitled to a Carer's Assessment from Adult Social Care '“ and I want them to have it. This is their chance to tell us how caring effects their life. We can then discuss what kind of support is needed, whether it is financial, practical, or emotional."

As well as reaching out to carers in the general population, East Sussex County Council is also looking at how members of its own staff manage long-term caring responsibilities '“ and what could improve their situation.

Action for Carers in Employment (ACE) estimates that one in every seven employees across the UK is a carer '“ and one in five carers gives up work. However, by supporting carers, an organisation can lower staff turnover, reduce recruitment and training costs, lower absenteeism, increase staff morale and improve retention. (Who Cares Wins: the Social and Business benefits for supporting working carers,' Action for Carers in Employment, 2006)

Staff members have responded to the council's survey with a range of requests, from more flexible working arrangements, to information about local services for carers.