Carers are urged to apply for ID cards

THE county council and community-based Leicestershire Support for Carers, are urging unpaid carers to apply for a carers passport identity card.

The identity card was developed as a response to the difficulties and challenges which carers face, often daily, and to offer them vital recognition.

The scheme helps to ensure carers receive the right advice and support as well as being recognised for the valuable role they play within their communities.

Councillor Christine Radford, county council cabinet member for adults and communities, said: “It’s so important all carers understand their rights. Having a passport means they can access the support available to them as soon as they need it.”

To apply for a Carers Passport, or for more information, visit supportforcarers.org , call 01858 468543 or email maureen@supportforcarers. org. Here’s some of the feedback from some of the carers already using their passports:

“When my carers passport first arrived, I thought ‘What’s this going to do for me?’ It’s turned out to be an absolute godsend. I’m grateful for it as it’s been so helpful in hospital settings.”

“I met another lady wearing her carers passport the other day, and we instantly had something in common considering we’d never met before. We exchanged our phone numbers and have arranged to go out together for a coffee.”

Mrs Radford said: “I want to encourage every unpaid carer to come forward and register for their carers passport through our Support for Carers service. It’s a quick and easy way to get your caring role recognised.”

Information is available at www.leicestershire.gov.uk/ looking-after-someone