Local MPs Caroline Lucas (Brighton Pavilion) and Peter Kyle (Hove and Portslade) launch new Carers Hub today (November 24) on Brighton Seafront.
Carers Hub, a brand new phone line (01273 977 000) and dedicated website (www.carershub.co.uk) for unpaid carers in Brighton and Hove will provide a comprehensive resource of relevant information, advice and access to organisations who can make life a bit easier for carers.
The Hub is a partnership between three prominent local charities (the Carers Centre for Brighton & Hove, Alzheimer’s Society and Crossroads Care Brighton, Hove and East Sussex) and Local Authority assessment staff, who have joined together to build a focal point for unpaid carers ensuring they receive the right support, at the right time, in the right place.
Unpaid carers say that having a central point for information, advice and support is one of the most important things they need to navigate the health and social care services for the people they look after.
Following the press conference an open top bus sponsored by Brighton & Hove Bus & Coach Company toured the city, visiting Churchill Square, Brighton Railway Station and Brighton Marina. At each stop the Carers Hub team engaged passers-by and distributed information leaflets to generate awareness for the new initiative.
Information stalls were set up at Brighton Railway Station, One Stop Travel Shop and Jubilee Library.
Caroline Lucas MP, the Green MP for Brighton Pavilion, said: “I’m delighted to celebrate the launch of the ‘Carers Hub’ today, an initiative which will allow The Carers Centre for Brighton and Hove to continue to support the many unpaid carers in the city. The Carers Centre is a vital resource that makes a significant difference to those managing such heavy responsibilities, helping them to access support and guidance when they need it. The Carers Hub will be a valuable addition to the city, helping to improve the quality of life for carers and young carers in Brighton and Hove.”
Peter Kyle, MP for Hove & Portslade, added: “The Carers Centre for Brighton & Hove is a vital local charity supporting unpaid carers, and I’m over-the-moon that this successful bid for funding will allow them to continue their vital work.
“The support both young and adult carers receive from the Centre is something I’m very proud of so I’m honoured to be supporting the celebration which confirms that their work can continue.”
Chris Lau, Director, The Carers Centre for Brighton & Hove, said: “We are delighted to continue our work with unpaid carers and take a lead on this initiative, which aims to make unpaid carers’ life a bit easier by having one phone number and one website to get information and support that they well deserve.”
Peter Field, Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, added: “As Patron of the Carers Centre I am delighted at the launch of this new venture and I would like to enlist your support. The Carers Centre always puts carer satisfaction at the heart of everything they do, no matter what age a carer is they strive to give them outstanding support. If you feel there is any way you can help, either financially or by volunteering do please get in touch.”
