Shropshire carers must look after their own health too – and take action to keep illness at bay
People who care for loved ones in Shropshire are being urged not to neglect their own health this winter.
Shropshire’s public health team and adult social care team are sending a message to carers that it’s only by looking after their own health that they can continue their vital role caring for partners, relatives and friends who are ill, frail or have disabilities.
Stay Well This Winter campaign
Winter illness can be hard to avoid but there are some simple steps people can take to look after themselves, which in turn will help to protect those they care for.
It’s still not too late to guard against flu by getting a flu jab from a pharmacist – and the jab is free for anyone receiving Carers Allowance.
At the first sign of illness – even if it’s just a cough, cold or sore throat – carers should visit their local pharmacy for specialist advice on what they can do, including what over-the-counter treatments are available to relieve symptoms.
Karen Calder, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for health and well-being, and Chair of Shropshire’s Health and Well-being Board, said:-
“Carers are very much the unsung heroes of health care and they play a hugely important role in our community, enabling ill, elderly or with-disabilities loved ones to remain in their own homes and retain a level of independence.
“But sometimes the job of caring for others can be at the expense of your own health and well-being, which can often easily be forgotten when you are used to focusing on someone else’s needs. So please do take heed of this advice, and look after yourself too.”
Lee Chapman, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adults, added:-
“Carers do an incredible job in Shropshire, but they need to do what’s necessary to protect themselves and the people they care for against illness and stay well this winter.
“Our message to carers is to not put your own health at the bottom of your priorities list. It’s not selfish to think about your own needs – quite the opposite in fact. Just consider what would happen if you were too ill to meet the needs of those you are caring for.”
There is a wealth of information available for carers on Shropshire Choices and Healthy Shropshire websites, including information on carers allowance, benefits, young carers and a carers’ direct helpline.
For more information to how to stay safe and well this winter, visit shropshire.gov.uk/stay-safe-and-well-this-winter/
