Nominations open for 2012 NSW Carers Awards

Minister for Ageing and Disability Services, Andrew Constance is calling for nominations for the 2012 NSW Carers Awards.

The NSW Carers Awards recognise and celebrate carers dedication in supporting people who need care because of a disability, mental illness, chronic health condition, dementia or because they are frail and aged.

“There are now more than 850,000 carers in NSW who play a vital role in enhancing the health and wellbeing of others,” Mr Constance said.

“The awards program is the government’s and the community’s way of saying a big thank you to this amazing group of people.”

There are four categories in which to nominate:

• Individual carer

• Carer support group

• Supporting Working

• Supporting Young

Nominations can be made online at www.adhc.nsw.gov.au from Friday 1 June until Friday 13 July 2012.

The Minister says that he acknowledges that carers often prefer to go unnoticed.

“It is important however to express our gratitude for making the huge sacrifices they do in caring for a parent, partner, brother, sister, friend, son or daughter,” he said.

One of last year’s award recipients, Julianne, has cared for her older sister for 39 years.

“Another recipient, Brigitte, claimed she was ‘just’ a mother and thought other people were more deserving but she has cared for her son who has a severe intellectual and physical disability for 28 years.”

Carer Awards will be presented during NSW Carers Week (Sunday 14 October to Saturday 20 October), while a special event will be held on Monday 15 October at NSW Parliament House for the major recipients.

Nominate here: http://www.adhc.nsw.gov.au/individuals/caring_for_someone/nsw_carers_award_2012_nomination

6 June 2012.