Caring Costs roadshows

Posted on: Thursday 17 November 2022

Next week, Torfaen Council is hosting a series of roadshows across the borough to support unpaid carers concerned about the rising cost of living. 

Carers attending the Caring Costs roadshow will be able to access benefits and grants advice, as well as information about ways to reduce energy costs.

They will also be able to receive support for other household bills and can find out how they can apply for food bank vouchers.

An unpaid carer is someone who looks after a family member, a relative or a friend, because they have a physical or mental health disability, an illness, or a substance misuse issue.

The roadshows coincide with Carers Rights Day on Thursday 24 November and will be held between 11am and 3pm on:

  • Wednesday 23 November at Pontypool Indoor Market
  • Thursday 24 November at Cwmbran Library and Blaenavon Medical Practice, Middle Coed Cae Road

The events are free and follow on from the success of the caring about the cost-of-living roadshows back in June, which saw more than 40 carers receive help and advice.

Young carers are also to visit and to sign up to the Young Carers ID scheme.

Councillor David Daniels, Executive Member for Adult Services and Housing, said: "As a council we are very aware of the impact the rising cost of living is having on people in vulnerable positions, like unpaid carers. 

"People caring for elderly, disabled or sick loved ones are likely to be disproportionately affected by rising food, fuel and energy bills and have limited means to increase their incomes. 

"The roadshows will help to let carers know about the financial support that is on offer, as well as the emotional wellbeing help available."

Carers Wales state that there are more than 370,000 unpaid carers of all ages providing care worth around £8.1 billion to the Welsh economy each year.

A charter that sets out the legal rights and principles of all unpaid carers in Wales, was launched by Welsh Government in September.

These rights are the same for all unpaid carers, whether they are an adult, a young person or a child. The charter can be viewed on the Welsh Government website.

For information about other support for unpaid adult carers in Torfaen - or the roadshows - contact louise.hook@torfaen.gov.uk or follow the Torfaen Adult Carers Facebook page.

For details of support available for young carers, contact rebecca.elver@torfaen.gov.uk, or follow Torfaen Young Carers on Facebook. 

Last Modified: 17/11/2022 Back to top