THIS week marks the 1000th carer to access Cariads; Mrs Daphne Carpenter and her husband Gordon of South Ockendon who care for their daughter.

Mrs Carpenter is also a committee member of the Thurrock Mencap Society. She said “she is glad to have known about Cariads and the support that they offer, it is a great service that has helped me and will help many others. I will be able to signpost other carers for support.”

Cariads is Thurrock’s recognised adult family carers service providing information, support and advice. Cariads is a partnership of local organisations; Thurrock Mind, Thurrock Lifestyle Solutions CIC and Thurrock Centre for Independent Living. –

Cariads provides a personalised service according to individual needs. Examples include; counselling, support groups, assistance with form filling, training and a supportive ear to listen to carers.

Unpaid carers need to be valued and recognised for their time and commitment to ensuring their loved ones have a good quality of life.

Cariads values the skills and experience that volunteers bring to the service to support carers.

Anyone interested in more information about Cariads as a carer or volunteer please contact

Lita Walpole Cariads Manager on 01375 659172, advice@cariads.info, facebook – cariadsthurrock, twitter – cariadsthurrock, website – Cariads.info.