KEETCH JOINS CELEBRITIES TO BACK CARERS WEEK 2006

11.26.55am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 5th Jun 2006

Hereford's MP, Paul Keetch is joining forces with top celebrities, including Fiona Phillips, Gloria Hunniford, Sally Lindsay (Shelley in Coronation Street), Lacey Turner (Stacey in Eastenders) and David Jason to lend his support to the 12th annual Carers Week (12-18 June).

Carers Week seeks to raise awareness of the 6 million carers in the UK today - people who look after a sick, frail or disabled friend or loved one. The 2006 theme is 'In Sickness and in Health' and will focus on the health and emotional well-being of carers.

TV presenter, Gloria Hunniford says: "The role of carers should never be underestimated. Carers take on responsibility, worry and stress. They are sometimes so concerned about the welfare of the person they are looking after, that they completely neglect their own well-being. I hope my support will help raise awareness of the issues facing carers and encourage more to seek assistance."

Thousands of events and activities will be taking place throughout the UK to help highlight the issues that affect carers, and the support and services that are available and can make such a difference to their lives.

Paul Keetch adds, "One in ten adults is a carer. Many give up an income, future employment prospects and pension rights to look after someone, so it's crucial they receive all the support they need and deserve. I urge everyone in Hereford and Ross-on-Wye who looks after a friend, relative or partner to contact their local carers' group or Social Services to find out about the help they are entitled to."