Don’t forget to do something special for yourself or a carer you know on Carers Day.

Carers Day 2010 will be observed nationally on Tuesday, October 19, as part of Carers Week.

If you’re a carer, this day is especially for YOU! You deserve some time out. Make the time to give yourself a break.

If you can, ask a friend or neighbour, or a family member, to help you with your caring responsibilities so you can participate in something special for yourself – be it a Carers Day activity in your region, meeting a friend for lunch, getting your hair done or going on a favourite walk.

Carers Day is also a day for all Australians to reflect on the contribution of unpaid family carers in their community and to consider doing something in return for a carer they know – whether they are a family member, a neighbour, friend or work colleague.

People may wish to take a carer out for a meal or an activity, prepare a nice meal for them at home, or they may simply make the effort to spend some time with them, buy them a cup of coffee, or give them a call.

A simple bunch of flowers picked from the garden, a batch of home-made biccies or a homemade frozen meal, a thank you card or a handwritten note – there are many ways to say ‘thanks for the job you do – I have noticed’ that are free or cost very little and yet the value of your simple gesture could be priceless in the eyes of the carer.

On Carers Day, all across Australia, celebratory activities will be taking place – from large events to small social gatherings.

To find out what events are happening near you, click on this link www.carersweek.com.au go to the ‘events’ tab and then go to your state or territory.

If you are involved in organising Carers Week or Carers Day events, and you would like people to know about them, you can add them to the list on the website. Be sure to include whatever information you wish to share.

The Carers Week website is also a great place to read about carers, who they are, what they do, and to learn about their unique experiences and needs.