It is estimated that millions of pounds in benefits for carers goes uncollected each year.
Carers are being urged to come forward by a Richmond councilor to receive the help and financial support they are entitled to.
Today is Carers Rights Day in the UK where carers are encouraged to come forward as it’s estimated that millions of pounds in benefits for carers goes uncollected each year.
It also aims to make carers more aware of their rights as well as what support they are entitled to.
Cllr Nicola Urquhart, Cabinet Member for Adults Services, Health and Housing said: “One of the main problems is that so many carers I meet or speak to don’t always recognise themselves as carers, and therefore sometimes don’t know what support is available to them.”
The Richmond Carers Centre, on Briar Road, Twickenham, provides a hub for local carers, giving unpaid carers access to information, advice and other local services and support.
Cllr Urquhart added: “Carers come in many different shapes and sizes and their needs differ.
“However one thing they can all share is access to help and information where they need it.”
Melissa Wilks, chief executive of the Richmond Carers Centre, said: “Carers Rights Day is all about getting information to carers – we know that it can take years for people to find out about their rights as a carer and the support available to them.”
Carers Rights Day is organized by Carers UK, a charity set up to help the millions of people who care for family or friends.
They also aim to promote careers opportunities for those looking to help those in need.
For more information about what rights and options are available to you, contact Richmond Carers Centre on 020 8867 2380 or email [email protected].
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