I was very pleased to once again take part in the Swindon Carers Rights Day Event along with Justin Tomlinson MP, at The Platform last Friday. Carers Rights Day is a national day, which exists to help carers understand their rights so that they can access all avenues of support available. Whether new to a caring role or if you have been caring for a while.
Every year, I am very proud to join this wonderful event here in Swindon, which brings everyone together, shares best practice, and provides helpful information, with a wide range of stalls and experts on hand.
From my own experience as a family member with someone who requires care, I know that the system can be difficult to navigate, so I am glad that Integrated Care, provided by the Care and Health Programme, and funded by the Department of Health and Social Care, will make it easier for carers to navigate the system, and improve carer identification, outcomes, and experience, regardless of background.
On Friday evening, I was pleased to be back at Phoenix Enterprises to celebrate the charity’s 20th Anniversary. I’m so proud to work with such a wonderful organisation that supports people with learning difficulties, physical disabilities, and mental health issues, into employment. They do this by providing a safe and supportive environment, where people can learn how to work safely, efficiently, and effectively. It is all about empowerment at Phoenix and releasing the potential of people with these conditions. And that is why I pay huge tribute to the team for their tireless work and fundraising. Here’s to many more happy returns for Phoenix Enterprises.
It was great to see hardworking Lydiard and Freshbrook Cllr, Caryl Sydney-Smith at my surgery at Lydiard House Hotel on Saturday. My thanks go to local residents who attended to discuss a variety of local and national issues.
On Sunday, it was a pleasure to be back at STEAM Museum to see my old friend and fellow local resident John Henshaw, President of the Guild of Television Camera Professionals, at their 50th anniversary event. It was great to see a 1963 outside broadcast van and cameras used amongst other things for the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill in 1965. I also enjoyed hearing John’s presentation about the Guild and its work, plus some great late 70s footage of BBC Pebble Mill At One, which many of us will remember!
On Monday, Business and Energy Secretary, Grant Shapps announced further government plans to help people across the country, including here in South Swindon, to bring down their energy costs with the new £1 billion ECO+ Scheme. I am glad that the scheme will extend support to those in the least energy efficient homes in the lower council tax bands, as well as targeting the most vulnerable.
The new ECO+ scheme will help those who do not currently benefit from any other government support to upgrade their homes and benefit from new home insulation, and with that, lower bills. Plus a new £18 million public information campaign will also offer technical tips and advice for people to cut their energy use, while also keeping warm this winter. Further information about the ECO+ Scheme can be found by visiting Government joins with households to help millions reduce their energy bills - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Finally, following Carers Rights Day, my Local Charity of The Week is Swindon Carers Centre. This wonderful charitable organisation provides a wide range of support and services to the 21,000 unpaid carers here in Swindon.
Swindon Carers Centre works in partnership with other organisations including local NHS Services, Swindon Borough Council’s Adult Social Care and Children’s Services, and other local voluntary organisations, with the aim of identifying as many carers as possible and providing the relevant support for every individual caring situation. This local charity works tirelessly to raise the profile of carers so that they can have a collective voice in influencing policy makers and service planners. Swindon Carers Centre is a lifeline to so many people here in Swindon, and there are many ways that you can support them, including attending events, fundraising, joining the Lottery Club, or volunteering with them. For further details, about Swindon Carers Centre, please visit https://www.swindoncarers.org.uk/
