Fire and Rescue Service Cares For Carers

Date article online: 12/06/2006

National Carers Week (12 to 18 June)

There are around 800 thousand of carers in the North West with over 5.2 million people providing informal care in England and Wales to one in ten of the population. These carers look after and help some of the most vulnerable people in our community, providing that special service that makes a difference.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service want to help both the carers and those they care for by giving a Free Home Fire Risk Assessment. Firefighters will visit their homes giving guidance on how to prevent fires and other hazards and if required installing a free smoke alarm. 

In its twelfth year Carers Week aims to:

• Each year ensure that tens of thousands more carers know they are not alone, and start to find out about the support and services available to them
• Celebrate the contribution that carers make every day of the year
• Inform and influence key groups, such as healthcare professionals and employers, who can significantly affect the quality of life of many carers
• Raise awareness of the role and value of carers

Borough Commander Dave Astley said "Carers contribute enormously to the welfare of those they care for and we want to ensure that their fire safety welfare is met by carrying out free home fire risk assessments. I would ask all carers to arrange a free home fire safety check by calling us today free on 0800 555 815."