Monday 9th to Sunday 15th June is Carers Week – one of the most important weeks of the year.

My work as Labour’s Shadow Minister for Care and Older People and as Leicester West’s MP has further convinced me that family carers are unsung heroes and heroines in our society. Many don’t think of themselves as a carer – just a husband, wife, son or daughter looking after the person they love. They hold their families together; but too often, carers get precious little health and support, and their own health, work opportunities and incomes suffer.

This has got to change. Public services, businesses and government must do more to identify carers and make sure they get the backing they deserve. I’ve pledged to continue to champion carers in Westminster and Leicester, so that their needs are at the top of the agenda. You can find out more about carers and pledge your support at the Carers Week website.