SWINDON North MP Justin Tomlinson has teamed up with TV presenter and former carer Fiona Phillips to support this year’s Carers Week.

The national event, which runs from June 18 to 24, recognises the contribution made by those people in Swindon, and throughout the UK, who provide unpaid care for someone who is ill, frail or disabled. The work they carry out is vital for their families and for their communities.

The theme for Carers Week 2012 is ‘in sickness and in health’, recognising the strain families are under. It calls for better support for the diverse range of people who have caring responsibilities.

Mr Tomlinson said: “Thousands of people in Swindon sacrifice not only their time, but also their money and their health in order to care for a loved one.

“Together they save this country an incredible £119bn every year. It’s vital that carers are offered regular breaks from caring and health checks so that they can be supported.

“I am taking part in Carers Week to show my respect and appreciation for our carers. I also want to let them know that there are services out there to help them. Caring can be so incredibly demanding. It’s important that carers know that they don’t have to struggle on alone.”