Booklet launched to help carers

TAKING care of a loved-one or a friend can be very rewarding and something many of us will do at some point in our life, but it can also be a challenging experience.

A booklet that brings together vital information for unpaid carers has been published by Gwynedd Council which aims to help carers cope with their responsibilities.

Launched at the annual Gwynedd Older People’s Conference, the ‘Looking after someone?’ booklet collates a range of useful information and details about services and support that is available for carers in Gwynedd.

Gwynedd Council Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing matters, Cllr Dafydd Meurig, said: “The work that carers do is invaluable – and we want to ensure that they are fully aware of the services and support available to them.

“Some carers may not be able to attend events or meetings where information is provided, and we therefore hope that this booklet will be a useful addition to the information that is available to carers here in Gwynedd.

“The booklets will be available from Gwynedd libraries and we would encourage carers, or anyone who knows someone who cares for an ill or disabled person to seek out a copy.

“The information is also available on the Council’s website: www. gwynedd.llyw.cymru/ carers.”

As part of the conference, a panel discussion provided an opportunity to gain an insight into the efforts of local unpaid carers.

One of those who took part was Sioned Williams from Pentreuchaf near Pwllheli.

Sioned said: “For me, there are four key things that are important as a carer – recognition, being included, having opportunities and not to be isolated.”

The event also included presentation from Carers Wales, Carers Outreach Service and the Council’s DementiaGo team who have recently been nominated for an award at the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friendly Awards.