'Walk in our shoes'

This morning I was at Fforestfach Medical Centre to address and wave off a group of carers and staff from the caring professions, who were seeking to highlight then role of carers by walking in their shoes, from medical centre to medical centre and on to the Carers' Centre in town.

The event is part of carers' week and will take in Fforestfach Medical Centre, Cheriton Medical Centre, Brynhyfryd Medical Centre, Manselton Surgery and Cwmfelin Surgery, highlighting the work these practices do to support carers. The photo shows the group outside Manselton surgery.

Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities. Caring can be a hugely rewarding experience but carers often find it challenging to take care of their own wellbeing while caring for others.

Its impact on all aspects of life, including carers' health should not be underestimated. Nine out of ten carers attend their GP surgery every year, where health professionals are well-placed to signpost them for support. This makes them better prepared to continue in a caring role.

It was a pleasure to be able to make a small contribution to this awareness-raising event.