I never cease to be amazed by the sacrifices made by Carers to look after their loved ones. I was at the Carers event today in the Town Hall. Deputy Mayor Councillor Mick Hayes was also present together with David Mellish, Chief Executive of Oxleas Trust. So many stories, so many people involved, it was a very humbling experience. Take the young carer who is a full-time student at the Metropolitan University. She is also the full time carer for her Grandfather. Good to see steps being taken to improve the support given. We have 22,000 carers in the Borough.
Then there is the untold story of Mary Webster, founder of the Carers movement. She lived in Woolwich Arsenal and became a campaigner for Carers across the country. She formed the National Carers organisation in 1965. Sadly she passed away at the age of 46. These events bring many emotions into perspective. We must seek to champion the cause of Carers rather than having just a one off experience of their needs. Indeed they are many.