DO readers know that one in eight of us cares for a disabled, elderly or frail family member? Carers provide round the clock care for their loved ones, often with very little support or recognition of their selfless devotion.
I work for a charity called Vitalise. We provide respite breaks for disabled people and carers and we know that a regular break is often the only thing that enables carers to carry on.
The problem is that our own research shows that six out of 10 carers are overwhelmed with feelings of worry or guilt about putting the person they care for into respite care. This is a terrible situation to be in, because it means that most carers are never able to properly ‘switch off’ from the stress of caring.
I would like to ask readers to join us in calling for quality, choice and dignity in respite care for all, and to support our vital work. We don’t get a penny from central government, but rely on our supporters to keep on providing our vital services. To make a donation or for more information about our breaks, call 0303 303 0147 or visit www.vitalise.org.uk.
Colin Brook, Vitalise
www.vitalise.org.uk
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