16 October 2009
CARERS WEEK 2009
Senator Mitch Fifield, the Coalition’s spokesman for Carers, today welcomed the start of Carers Week 2009 and thanked carers for the valuable contribution they make to the lives of the individuals they support.
There are approximately 2.6 million unpaid carers in Australia who give their time and energy, often 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to provide the care, love and support to family and friends.
“Without the dedication of the many unpaid carers providing support to family and friends who are frail, have a disability, terminal illness, chronic condition or mental illness many Australians would not be able to continue living at home and in their community,” Senator Fifield said.
Carers Week 2009 is from Sunday 18 to Saturday 24 October 2009.
Carers Week provides an opportunity to promote the valuable role Australian Carers play in our society and acknowledge the time and support they give to others.
The 2009 Carers Week theme, Anyone, Anytime across Australia reflects the unexpected and indiscriminate nature of the caring role and focuses on the geographical diversity of carers.
Carers Day 2009 is on Tuesday 20 October. Carers Day is a day to celebrate the contribution carers make in their community and show appreciation through a simple act of kindness by doing something in return for a carer you know.
“I encourage everyone who knows a carer to make the effort on Carers Day to spend some time, whether on the phone or by going for coffee with their friend, neighbour or colleague to show appreciation for the vital contribution they make to our community,” said Senator Fifield.
Carers Week and Carers Day are opportunities for us all to thank, recognise and show our appreciation and support to the many Australians, young and old, who often make personal sacrifices to care for a family member or friend.
For further information on Carers Week 2009 visit www.carersweek.com.au/09/