Featured here are the first paragraphs from six articles that appeared in the local media during Carers Week 2009, reporting carers stories and some of the 8,000+ events and activities organised throughout the UK.

Carers enjoy a tasty treat as a thank you 

Week to celebrate our caring army of helpers

Are you one of Stoke-on-Trent's hidden carers?

Carers are cared for

Spreading the word

Carefree for a day

Carers enjoy a tasty treat as a thank you

A week of caring for the carers was celebrated at Chestnut Tree House children's hospice. A host of events were arranged as part of Carers Week, including a barbecue for more than 120 people, a cream tea in the sunshine and even a spot of fly fishing.

reproduced from the Littlehampton Gazette, 18 June 2009

Week to celebrate our caring army of helpers

A hidden troop of carers, described as the UK's secret army, is highlighted this week as a celebration and appreciation of their support. Manager Tricia Cole said "Our open week is one of many activities and services that Dover Carers' Support provides to support carers and make their lives as easy as possible."

Reproduced from the Dover Mercury, 11 June 2009

Are you one of Stoke-on-Trent's hidden carers?

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue service is targetting people who look after the elderly and vulnerable as part of National Carers Week, which began yesterday. Pictured is carers lead project officer, Kaye Martin.

Reproduced from The Sentinel, 9 June 2009

Carers are cared for

The borough's 23,000 carers have been offered a break from their responsibilities in a week-long run of free activities. Brent Council launched the event at Wembley Stadium on Monday to mark Carers Week.

Reproduced from the Kilburn Times, 11 June 2009

Spreading the word

National Carers Week began on Monday to campaign for better recognition of carers' work, more support, and a higher Carers' Allowance. Carers do not have James Bond-style glamour or pay but charities say carers are Britain's true "secret service". And this week Reading Borough Council and NHS Berkshire West have launched a three-month consultation with carers.

Reproduced from the Reading Chronicle, 11 June 2009

Carefree for a day

It was all aboard a red Routemaster for some of Hackney's unsung heroes who perform an unselfish and unpaid service as carers looking after ill or frail family members, partners or friends. The doubledecker was part of a roadshow during Carers Week providing information about support .

Reproduced from the Hackney Gazette, 18 June 2009