CARERS who devote their time to looking after others were treated to a summer barbecue to say thanks for their dedication.

Fair Havens Hospice, in Westcliff, held the feast in its gardens for patients and their carers during Carers’ Week.

The nationwide campaign aims to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities.

Jill Simmonds, carers coordinator, said: “Caring for a loved one with a serious illness can be frightening and emotional. You can often make promises to look after them, which then become too difficult to fulfil.

“We let carers know what support is out there, whether it’s at the hospice for respite or end of life care, day care or Hospice at Home.

“When they’re ready, we give carers courage to be able to talk about the diagnoses, treatment, death and post bereavement, whenever they are ready. As a hospice we’re here to journey with people wherever that goes and that includes looking after the needs of the carer.”

During the afternoon, patients and their carer senjoyed the sunshine with entertainment provided by Suzie and Bob Simmonds.

Fair Havens Hospice and its Community Hospice Service cares for adults who have an illness for which there is no cure, but care extends to carers and the whole family, with the help of its family support team.

Fair Havens is part of Havens Hospices which also incorporates Little Havens Hospice for babies, children and teenagers.

It is a registered charity and receives limited Government funding. The organisation must raise more than £100,000 every week to be there for everyone who needs its care.