NOMINATE A CARER YOU KNOW TODAY

Minister for Ageing and Minister for Disability Services John Ajaka today announced that nominations for the 2016 NSW Carers Awards are open.

The NSW Carers Awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the dedication, commitment and valuable contributions of the more than 850,000 unpaid carers across NSW.

Mr Ajaka said that one in ten people in NSW dedicate their time to caring for someone who needs care because of disability, mental illness, a chronic health condition, dementia or ageing.

“Every day carers provide vital unpaid support to members of our community, improving their lives and making a positive impact to the community and the economy as a whole,” Mr Ajaka said.

“Chances are you already know someone who cares for a loved one. Show them you care about what they do by nominating them for an award.”

The 2015 NSW Carer of the Year, Sheila Openshaw, called on members of the community to nominate a carer they know.

“I am passionate about my role as a carer – it has made me more compassionate, understanding and wise,” Mrs Openshaw said.

“Being a carer can be very challenging at times, so it means a lot to me to have been recognised for the contribution I have made.”

This year, ten awards are available for individuals and organisations to be honoured during Carers Week, which runs from Sunday 16 – Saturday 22 October 2016.

The ten recipients will receive their award at a Carers Week ceremony at Parliament House, where the 2016 NSW Carer of the Year will be announced.

Nominations for the NSW Carers Awards 2016 close on Sunday 10 July at midnight, and can be made online at www.careforacarer.nsw.gov.au/carersawards.