Exhausted but battling on - that's Hartlepool's carers and it's time to say thank you

A silent army of carers have spent nearly a year in lockdown looking after loved ones and now there’s a way for people to show their appreciation for everything they have done.

A new project called Random Act Of Kindness has been launched by the Hartlepool Carers group where people to nominate someone that they think deserves an award.

Christine Fewster, chief executive of Hartlepool Carers, said: “As we entered our third lockdown, it’s clear carers and families are exhausted, frustrated and scared.

“We feel it is important to recognise the amazing work going on in our community. Carers are going above and beyond for their loved ones and we know many family members being cared for want to say a big thank you.

“We want to try and provide as many gifts as possible and will be going through all applications at the end of February.”

A carer is anyone who is providing practical support such as shopping, collecting medication, personal care or even emotional support. Carers can be children and adults and Christine added: “We will accept applications from anyone living in Hartlepool.”

Hartlepool Carers has stepped in with numerous projects since Covid-19 first hit in the UK.

They have included;

l Free boxes of food which only registered carers can apply for.

l The ‘Carers Cycle and Connect project where people can loan bikes.

l The Talking Tuesdays project which helps people with advice on how to keep safe, making the most of your finances and cancer awareness.

l Support for families in Hartlepool who are in isolation or finding it difficult to get their shopping in.

But now comes the new initiative and Christine explained what people need to do to thank someone special.

She said: “Tell us a little bit about why you feel the person deserves a ‘Random Act of Kindness’ and our panel will be in touch if you have been successful.

“We are really pleased we can offer this opportunity as we know how hard things are at the moment and just hope we can spread a little bit of positivity across the town.”

To nominate someone for a Random Act of Kindness, visit https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/RandomActofKindness

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