Premier invite for hospice champion

A staff nurse from St. Peter's Day Hospice who helped set up the first support group for carers of patients with life limiting illnesses was invited to meet Prime Minister David Cameron to celebrate National Carers Week.

Hilary Jennings, who works at the charity's Day Hospice in Brentry, was among 150 people invited to 10 Downing Street for a reception.

"I'm delighted to be part of this campaign for greater support and recognition for all unpaid carers and to celebrate the huge contribution they make to our society," said Hilary.

"I've always been a champion of giving carers a voice – giving them the information and support they need to feel empowered. If they have a certain amount of control over what happens it gives them confidence.

"Our job is to provide information, emotional support and respite care to carers of patients with life-limiting illnesses."

Hilary who likes to run in her spare time, and who recently ran the Bristol 10k on behalf of the charity, continued:

"I am humbled to see the dedication of the carers and the huge sacrifices they make to care for their ill relative or friend. Often carers neglect their own needs. If you look after the carers they will better be able to look after patients.

"Respite is not just important, it's essential. St Peter's Day Hospice gives carers a day when they are free to do their own thing and responsibility is taken from their shoulders."

According to Social Services Directors, adult social care services, which support families affected by illness and disability, are facing £1 billion worth of cuts in 2011-12.

Research for Carers Week, shows more than three quarters of carers in the South West are worried about the effect of cuts and say they are worse off financially since taking on their caring responsibilities.

This year, nine national charities have come together for Carers Week to raise awareness of the work by unpaid carers. The campaign is also supported by Dame Judi Dench, who herself was a carer for her husband when he had lung cancer. There are more than 8000 events and activities taking place across the country.

St Peter's Day Hospice offers access to specialist medical and nursing input, physiotherapy and occupational therapy as well as a chance for patients to meet others in a similar situation to themselves.

Last year the hospice cared for 2,000 patients in the region and supported over 6,000 family members, including children.

All care is provided free of charge but with the NHS contributing just 25% of the £6 million needed to run the hospice yearly, support from the public is essential.

To find out more about how you could help St. Peter's Hospice visit www.stpetershospice.org.uk.