Carers' Health Fair for Tullamore

A packed programme of events providing support and respite for carers will be taking place across Laois and Offaly this week.

Drop-in gatherings, social events and information sessions have been organised by the Carers Association as part of National Carers’ Week 2013.

One of the highlights of the week is a special Carers’ Health Fair, which will see more than 15 health care service providers brought together under one roof, to provide free health checks and information to carers.

The event takes place at the Bridge House Hotel, Tullamore on Wednesday, June 12, from 10am to 2pm. Other events which have been planned for the week include a night out at Mullingar Greyhound Stadium and lunch at Belvedere House.

Family Carers are usually immediate relatives who provide very high levels of care, at home, for children and adults with severe disabilities, frail older people and people who are terminally ill.

The 2011 Census estimates there to be in the region of 4,600 family carers in Laois and Offaly. By hosting events as part of Carers’ Week, the Carers Association hopes to raise awareness of the vital role carers play and highlight the support and assistance that is available to them.