New Urdu, Punjabi and Bengali carer support service launched in Bedfordshire
It's part of Carers in Bedfordshire's Diverse Community Project
The service launched last week after funding from the Carers Trust, allowed them to extend their service to those whose first language is Urdu, Punjabi or Bengali.
Carers in Bedfordshire support those who care for a friend or family member, who due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction.
They work to enhance carers health and well-being by offering specialist support.
As part of the launch the charity have also produced information leaflets to be distributed to community venues such as GP surgeries and community centres for carers in all three languages.
Misbah Mehmood, Personalised Adult Support Worker at Carers in Bedfordshire, said:
"We have always supported carers from diverse backgrounds, but we found carers whose first language is not English would often have to access our support through someone else.
Now they can access the support they need directly through us. There can also be additional challenges for carers from minority ethnic communities.
They might struggle with language barriers, have difficulty in accessing culturally appropriate services and face stereotyping around caring.
Carers may also face pressures to keep caring issues 'in the family' and be less likely to self-identify. This can mean increased risk of ill health, financial difficulties, and social exclusion."
Videos have also been made in the three languages to explain what help is available to carers:
The videos are available on social media and the charity's website.
HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis said
"This is a great initiative and recognises that, in all communities, there are people quietly caring for relatives and friends. It is important for carers everywhere to realise that there is help and support available to sustain them through this vital role.
"By reaching out in this way, Carers in Bedfordshire are seeking to engage with all carers to help overcome some of the barriers which prevent carers from accessing the help and services that are available".