Carer wins award for ‘outstanding contribution to volunteering’

An Eastbourne former carer has won an award recognising his ‘outstanding’ work with Care for the Carers and unpaid carers – people who look after a relative, friend or neighbour who couldn’t manage without them.

Volunteer Roger Strange-Burlong is the regional winner of the Marsh Award for Carers, awarded by the Carers Trust and the Marsh Christian Trust to carers or former carers to recognise their “outstanding contribution to volunteering”.

The Mayor of Eastbourne Pat Hearn, who was joined by Chief Executive Officer of Care for the Carers Jennifer Twist, presented Roger with the award at Eastbourne Town Hall on Wednesday (11 October).

The Mayor of Eastbourne Pat Hearn said: “For many years, Roger has worked tirelessly championing and supporting other carers.  All this in addition to caring full time for his late wife, Alex. His contribution to Care for the Carers has been outstanding and inspirational and I am delighted to play a small part in honouring his commitment by presenting him with this award.”

Roger’s work has involved being a member of several committees and boards, helping to shape local services for carers. He has raised carers’ issues with Parliament, travelling to Number 10 where he spoke with the then Prime Minister about caring. As an online champion, Roger has also raised awareness of carers and caring with his vlogs.

Following the award presentation, Roger and three fellow volunteers, who are also unpaid carers, enjoyed a tour of Eastbourne Town Hall and an afternoon tea.

Roger said: “I didn’t expect to ever receive an award for what I have done. I was very surprised that I was nominate, but then that is not the reason I was a carer or why I got involved in championing carer’s issues. Carers give so much to this country and deserve better recognition for their hard work.

“I had a thoroughly wonderful afternoon and it was very enjoyable to have high tea in the Mayor’s Parlour.”

Chief Executive Officer of Care for the Carers Jennifer Twist added: “Roger has made an outstanding contribution to championing carers, supporting Care for the Carers, and speaking up for local carers, and it’s great that his hard work and dedication have been recognised.”

-ENDS-

Editor’s notes

Care for the Carers

Care for the Carers is the carers centre for East Sussex and an independent charity supporting unpaid carers across the county.

The charity provides free practical and emotional advice and a range of services such as counselling, support groups and training.

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