The event will bring together Dudley Carers Hub and a wide range of local organisations and community groups, giving carers the opportunity to speak directly to professionals and find out about support available across the borough. Whether someone has recently become a carer or has been caring for a family member, friend or neighbour for many years, the summit will offer practical information about the rights and assistance available to them.
Those attending will be able to find out more about their rights as an unpaid carer and the benefits, grants and other financial assistance they may be entitled to. Organisations in attendance will provide health and wellbeing support and signposting to community services, where to find information on employment rights, including flexible working and carers’ leave and where to go for further advice and guidance. Carers will also have the opportunity to share their own experiences and help shape the future support available to carers across Dudley.
Helen Codd Head of Involvement and Partnerships at The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust said: “Thousands of people provide invaluable care and support to relatives, friends and neighbours, but people do not always recognise themselves as carers or realise there may be help available to them. This summit is an opportunity to bring that support together in one place. Whether you have a question about finances, your rights at work, your own wellbeing or simply want to understand what help is available locally, we would really encourage you to come along.
“It is also important that we listen to carers themselves. Their experiences can help us understand what is working well and where we need to do more.”
The event is free to attend, but carers are encouraged to book their place in advance. Places can be booked online at: https://tinyurl.com/2atp2yas Alternatively, contact Michelle Jones, Carers Support Development Officer, on 07435 754386.