The theme for this year’s Carers Rights Day was simple: “Money Matters”.  Solihull’s Carers Rights Day Event was held at the Civic Suite, Solihull and gave local carers the opportunity to ask questions and seek advice from a variety of local representatives and agencies.  We were also delighted that Fiona Castle, our Patron was able to join us.  As many of you know, Fiona is the wife of the late Roy Castle who died after a 2-year battle with lung cancer.  Not only did Fiona open the event, but also stayed and talked at length to individual carers throughout the day.

Many carers who attended had booked one-to-one appointments with the representatives from Solihull Council or Lorely Burt, MP.  Agencies and organisations with information stands included Citizens Advice Bureau, the Department for Work & Pensions, PALS, Severn Trent Water, Enable, SOLO, DIAL, AgeUK, Collective Legal Solutions and the Winter Warmth Campaign. 

Other carers simply enjoyed the opportunity to meet our staff and other carers informally over a buffet lunch.  Needless to say, the indian head massage also proved extremely popular!

From the feedback we received, the event was a great success and carers would like more similar events.