Sunderland City Council signs pledge to support unpaid carers

Sunderland City Council signed the North East and North Cumbria Commitment to Unpaid Carers during Carers Week.

The regional pledge aims to improve recognition and support for unpaid carers, who play a vital role in supporting others.

Councillor Jonathan Emerson, cabinet member for health, wellbeing and adult services, said: "Unpaid carers make an enormous contribution to our communities every single day and we are proud to be signing up to this regional commitment to support them.

"Carers Week has given us an important opportunity to recognise the selfless dedication of carers in Sunderland, and signing this pledge demonstrates our ongoing commitment to ensuring carers are listened to, valued and able to access the support they need.

"We know that caring can have a significant impact on people's health, wellbeing and finances, which is why it is so important that organisations work together to improve support and reduce inequalities for carers."

The regional commitment focuses on four key priorities: increasing awareness and recognition of carers, funding to reflect carer needs and reduce inequalities, embedding carers in policy and strategy development, and creating more streamlined support services.

By signing the pledge, Sunderland joins organisations across the North East and North Cumbria in promising to work collaboratively to ensure unpaid carers are recognised, valued, and supported.

During Carers Week, which ran from June 8 to 14, the council organised a series of events and activities to celebrate and support carers across the city.

Landmarks including Northern Spire, Fulwell Mill, Cliffe Park Lighthouse, and Keel Square were lit in blue in recognition of the vital role carers play in the community.

Fulwell Mill among landmarks lit up blue during Carers Week. (Image: Sunderland City Council)

Support for unpaid carers in Sunderland is provided by the council in partnership with Sunderland Carers Centre and Mobilise Sunderland.

Any resident in Sunderland aged 18 or over who looks after someone with day-to-day tasks is entitled to a carer’s assessment to help them access information and support tailored to their needs.

The self-assessment is available on Sunderland City Council's website.