Hospice celebrates work of Bristol's carers

A local hospice is highlighting the work of carers in Bristol with a series of celebrations in line with this year's National Carers Week.

 

St Peter's Hospice is running events from 18-25 June, including a cream tea and a 'relax and recharge' evening, in order to support the many carers in the city who dedicate their lives to loved ones with life-limiting illnesses.

 

The hospice wishes to celebrate the commitment made by the unpaid carers who often face ill health, stress and financial worries as a result of their contributions.

 

St Peter's Hospice staff nurse Hilary Jennings said: "I am always humbled to see the dedication of the carers in Bristol and the huge sacrifices they make to care for their ill relative or friend. Often carers neglect their own needs - if you look after the carers they will better be able to look after patients.

 

"Carers Week gives us the opportunity to shout about these unsung heroes in our community and give them something back. We are putting on fun events and pamper treatments and look forward to offering carers help and advice with anything they are worried about."

 

There are over 495,000 carers in the South West alone and with benefits often meaning the equivalent of just £1.59 per hour many carers juggle their responsibilities with a full-time job.

 

This year, nine national charities have come together for Carers Week to raise awareness of the work by unpaid carers. The campaign is also supported by Dame Judi Dench and Lynda Bellingham among others and there are more than 8000 events and activities taking place across the country.

 

St Peter's Hospice will be holding a Cream Tea at Brentry on Tuesday while on Thursday there will be a 'relax and recharge' evening offering massages and reflexology treatments and the chance for carers to socialise and share experiences with others.

 

St Peter's Day Hospice offers access to a team of skilled professionals including doctors, nurses, physio, occupational and complementary therapists. In addition there is a dedicated group of professionals known as the psycho-social and spiritual support team who provide additional support to patients and their carers, including follow-up visits for bereaved relatives should they wish.

 

There is also a programme of education and support in the form of a six-week course that is tailored to meet the specific needs of carers, separate from those of the patient.

 

Last year the hospice cared for 2,675 patients in the region and supported over 6,000 family members, including children.

 

To find out more about how you could help St. Peter's Hospice visit www.stpetershospice.org.uk.