LOCAL SNP MP SPONSORS FIRST MOTION IN HOUSE OF COMMONS

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford this week sponsored her first 'Early Day Motion' in the House of Commons.

Dr Whiteford chose support for carers as the subject for her first Motion which also highlights Carers' Week 2010. The new MP for Banff & Buchan is one of six primary sponsors of the motion. The six MPs who jointly tabled the Motion represent constituencies across Scotland, England and Wales and also represent the four main parties.

Speaking from Westminster, Eilidh Whiteford said:

"There are nearly half a million people in Scotland who are looking after elderly, sick or disabled family members or friends at home, many of them for over 50 hours a week.

"Our health and community care services simply couldn’t cope without the unpaid care they provide. Yet people who look after others often compromise their own health – too many end up suffering from exhaustion and stress, or injure themselves through heavy lifting.

"The theme of Carers’ Week 2010 is ‘A Life of My Own’ and it’s intended to highlight the need for carers to do normal everyday things that can be difficult if they can’t get a break from caring, like going shopping, going to the dentist or hairdresser, or even enjoying an evening out. Those who provide unpaid care for frail or disabled relatives and friends make a very valuable contribution to our communities, and I’m keen to see they get the support they need to continue to care – and the support they need to have a ‘life of their own’ too."

Note: The text of the Parliamentary Motion reads as follows:

CARERS' WEEK 2010

That this House expresses its respect for the six million people of all ages in the UK who provide unpaid help, care and support to a relative or friend who, because of frailty, illness or disability, would not otherwise be able to manage; notes that despite the huge contribution carers make to society, many carers continue to remain unsupported in their caring roles without the chance of a break or respite; is concerned that many carers are hidden, unheard and unable to access relevant and practical advice, information and services; further notes that Carers Week, a partnership of national charities, takes place this year from 14 to 20 June, with the theme A life of my own; and believes that without significant reform of the care and support system carers will not be able to access support at times of crisis, will not be able to work, which has a lasting impact on the economy, and will not have the chance of a life of their own that they deserve.