A BOOKLET bringing together vital information to help unpaid Gwynedd carers has been launched.

It has been published by Gwynedd Council which aims to help carers cope with their responsibilities.

Launched at the annual Gwynedd Older People’s Conference, the ‘Looking after someone?’ booklet collates information and details about Gwynedd services and support available.

Gwynedd Council Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing matters, Councillor Dafydd Meurig, said: “The work that carers do is invaluable – and we want to ensure that they are fully aware of the services and support available to them.

“Some carers may not be able to attend events or meetings where information is provided, and we therefore hope that this booklet will be a useful addition to the information that is available to carers here in Gwynedd."

As part of the conference, a panel discussion gave insight into the efforts of unpaid carers.

One of those who took part was Sioned Williams from Pentreuchaf near Pwllheli.

Sioned said: “For me, there are four key things that are important as a carer – recognition, being included, having opportunities and not to be isolated.”

Gwynedd Council’s Older People’s Champion, Councillor Selwyn Griffiths added: “The conference was a fantastic way to hear about the important work that is being carried out and to hear from older people about the issues that are important to them.

“As well as the very important discussions about the vital work of carers, it also offered an opportunity to hear from Ann Griffith, the Deputy North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner who discussed how crime affects older people. I’d like to thank everyone who attended and contributed towards the event.”

The event also included presentation from Carers Wales, Carers Outreach Service and the Council’s DementiaGo team who have recently been nominated for an award at the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friendly Awards.

Cllr Meurig added: "We would encourage carers, or anyone who knows someone who cares for an ill or disabled person to seek out a copy."

The booklets are available from Gwynedd libraries. The information is also available on the Gwynedd Council’s website: www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/carers

For more information about the booklet contact Lester Bath, Gwynedd Council’s Carers Support Officer on 01286 679742 or email gofalwyr@gwynedd.llyw.cymru.