The Isle of Man Census will be held on 27th March 2011 with complete results published early in 2012. The Census provides key information used for planning purposes, to assess statutory services and for local authorities to optimise the services they provide. This is a fantastic opportunity for the Islands family and informal carers to be recognised as this years Census form asks if the householder or members of the household 16 or over look after or give any significant help or support to family members or friends, neighbours and others because of long-term physical or mental ill-health or disability or problems related to old age. Jackie Betteridge, CEO of Crossroads Caring for Carers Isle of Man, said “this opportunity for carers to self-identify is a welcome development as before now there has been no official record of the extent of caring happening on the Isle of Man. Crossroads estimate that there are 10,000 adult carers and 1,000 young carers on the island but without real evidence many of their support needs have been overlooked. The Census data will inform the Carers Strategy and evidence a need for services to support carers and cared-for”. If you have any questions in relation to the Census please contact the Census Office on 686861 or email census@gov.im or if you have any questions in relation to carers please contact Crossroads Caring for Carers Isle of Man on 673103 or email mail@crossroadsiom.org. Ends