THE work of Islington’s small army of unpaid carers has been celebrated with a week of events.

Caring for family and friends can be a difficult and isolating experience, said Islington Carers Hub’s Ismail Bahriyeli. The focus of last week’s activities was to bring a “feelgood factor” to Islington’s carers.

At the Care for a Cuppa tea party at the Drovers Centre, in Holloway, on Friday, carers came together to eat, chat and share experiences.

Gillian Shepherd, who cares for her husband who has dementia, was chatting with Mary Ray, who supports her son.

“It can be difficult as you are caring for someone 24/7,” Gillian said. “I’ve really enjoyed these events.”

Althea Wallace and Gervais Henri, a couple who live in Highbury, care for each other. Althea has autism and Gervais chronic pain.

Althea accesses carer support elsewhere in the country but said support in Islington was far better.

“I wouldn’t be here without them,” Althea said.

• Keywords
  CARERS, CELEBRATIONS, LABOUR
• Geographical keyword
  HOLLOWAY
• Persons keyword
  Care for a Cuppa tea party, North Road [Older Persons Day Care Centre] Drovers Centre