The dedication of carers is set to be recognised by health trust

South Tyneside and City Hospitals Sunderland NHS Foundation Trusts will also unveil a specially-developed DVD which will be used to help train staff to recognise, value and support carers.

Carers Week, which runs from Monday, June 12 until Sunday, June 18, annually raises awareness of caring and the challenges that carers face and recognises the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK.

With three in four carers saying they do not feel that their caring role is understood or valued by their community, this year’s theme is Building Carer Friendly Communities i.e. communities which support carers to look after their loved ones well, while recognising that they are individuals with needs of their own.

Ken Bremner, chief executive of both trusts said: “The importance of the role of carers cannot be under-estimated.

“The Charter recognises and values carers and allows them to make early and informed decisions about seeking practical and financial support.

“It especially looks at tackling inequality and social inclusion by identifying carers who are coping alone and making sure they know what help and support is available.”

The charter emphasises the importance of: recognising and valuing carers, including young ones; working in partnership with them; signposting them to help and advice; involving them in future service developments, and involving them in decisions about the care provided by health staff to the people they care for.

South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust will launch Carers Week with an event on Monday from 11am to 2pm, in South Tyneside District Hospital’s Alexander’s restaurant.

Adult and young carers’ groups will be there to promote their services.

On Thursday, June 15, there will be a tea party in the restaurant from 2pm to 4pm for carers of current trust patients either in hospital or in the community.