CROSSROADS Caring for Carers has marked this year's Carer's Rights Day by launching a new appeal.
The White Rose for a Carer appeal takes the form of special ribbons printed with white roses which are being sold to raise awareness and show support for carers.
On Friday, December 3, charity staff manned a stand in the Strand Shopping Centre in Douglas and were on hand to talk to shoppers about carers.
According to Crossroads there are more than 10,000 carers in the Island – many of whom are unidentified. This figure is expected to increase substantially over the next few decades to an estimated 15,600 – 16,000 as our elderly population grows.
Chief executive Jackie Betteridge said: "I often wonder what would happen if everyone decided not to care. Caring is a burden but we should celebrate what carers do – without their help the strain on community and statutory services would be enormous."
Some carers have to give up on many things to be able to care. Many struggle to find work that fits in with their caring commitments and some lose out on valuable pension contributions.
The White Rose for a Carer ribbons are available from the Crossroads Caring for Carers shops on Victoria Street and Prospect Terrace in Douglas. A donation of £1 has been suggested.
Photo caption: L to R - Chairman of Crossroads David Gawne, Crossroads Julie Kelly, Bill Malarkey MHK, Crossroads Nic Libreri, Alex Wilson, Karen Thompson, Phil Braidwood MHK, Adrian Earnshaw MHK and director of social care Andrew Swithinbank.
