An MP in Chesterfield has publicly backed a project that works to help people living in the region who care for a dependent person.
The carer liaison project was started by Derbyshire Carers Association a year ago, with the aim of identifying carers in the region and providing them with the support and structure they need.
Since its inception, the project has managed to identify 500 people acting as carers and has forged strategic partnerships with health organisations to provide better support. When it launched, the project was championed by MP Toby Perkins, who called for local doctors to flag up anyone they thought may benefit.
The appeal made by Mr Perkins was a success and to mark this, he was invited back to Derbyshire Carers Association to meet volunteers and staff who have been driving the project forward over the last 12 months.
Initiatives like this rely on people getting involved and key campaign messages are often delivered using methods like poster and flyer printing. Chesterfield residents will then be able to find more information when necessary.
The team leader for the project, Helen Weston, spoke about the vital work that the organisation does. She said:
"We find that many carers find out about us later when their lives have reached crisis point and they have been pushed into a state of ill health themselves. This project has helped identify carers at an early point in their caring journey."
More information on the project can be obtained by contacting Derbyshire Carers Association directly.
