Special gift bags delivered to Burgess Hill carers as a ‘thank-you’ for their work

Burgess Hill Town Council coordinated delivery of 80 ‘Carers Wellbeing Bags’ to adult carers nominated through agencies and social media.

Those who received the bags are all unpaid carers living with someone who needs help because of their illness, frailty, disability, mental health problem or addiction and cannot cope without their support.

The gift bags were in place of the council’s annual Pamper Day for Carers which was cancelled this year.

The bags contained a selection of treats and gifts to provide some light relief to the carers. Many of the gifts were donated by local businesses and organisations.

Council leader Robert Eggleston said: “We owe a real debt of gratitude to our adults in the community who devote so much of their time and energy caring for people without any financial reward.

“The Carers Wellbeing Bags are a small thank you for everything they do. I’d like to thank all of the organisations and businesses that supported the Carers Wellbeing Bags project. Their generosity and support is much appreciated.”

Jackie Cooper, chairman of Burgess Hill Youth, said: “Burgess Hill Youth are very pleased to support the Carers Wellbeing Bag initiative. We recognise the role of parent carers through our work with the Young Carers of Burgess Hill.

“Our parent carers go above and beyond the role of parents, and we recognise the value they add to our community.”

Linda Blaker, on behalf of the Forget-Me-Not Group, said: “I know the Forget Me Not carers will be so grateful, just to be remembered during this stressful time. Thank you again for all who have contributed to this wonderful initiative.”

The Town Council says it is grateful to Burgess Hill Girls, Tesco, Apetito, Cocoa Loco, the Budding Foundation, Tates of Sussex and Silvas Cafe for their donations.

Deliveries were supported by Burgess Hill Youth and local councillors. The remainder of the bags’ contents were jointly funded by the town council and Burgess Hill District Lions Club.