To mark National Carers Week 2024, themed “Putting Carers on the Map,” the Sandwell Carers Team organised two events to celebrate and support carers in the community.
The first event consisted of a bustling marketplace where various carer services came together to share valuable information with the general public and known carers. Among the participating organisations were Admiral Nurses – BCHFT, Young Carers, Omega, Crossroads, Safeguarding Sandwell, Healthwatch Sandwell, ICB – The New Metropole Hospital, Parent Carers, Patient Experience – BCHFT, Sandwell SPDC, Provider Support Team, St Albans, Sandwell Community Dementia Service, the Salvation Army, and of course, Sandwell Carers Service.
In the afternoon, carers who engage with Sandwell Carers Team were treated to a delightful afternoon tea, complete with cakes baked by the dedicated staff and sandwiches funded through their own fundraising efforts.
The event, which welcomed carers from Sandwell’s diverse population, was a heartwarming gathering where attendees socialised, shared experiences, and enjoyed a much-deserved break. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many carers expressing how much they appreciated the opportunity to relax and feel valued. Comments from the attendees highlighted the wonderful atmosphere and the sense of community and recognition they felt.
Linda Price, Team Leader Sandwell Carers Team said: “The team always go above and beyond each year to ensure carers feel appreciated, not only during National Carers Week but throughout the year. Their dedication creates a welcoming atmosphere that provides carers with much-needed respite.
“I am immensely proud of the team and thank them for all their hard work and support.”
A special thank you was also extended to the carers themselves, with Sandwell Carers Team emphasising that their contribution is invaluable and that they can never be thanked enough for their selfless dedication.