Carers’ Resource celebrated moving into its new Harrogate base with an official opening ceremony attended by MP Andrew Jones and supporters from local organisations.
The charity, which supports unpaid carers looking after family members or friends, has relocated to modern premises at Grove Park Court, having been based at North Park Road, Harrogate, since 1995.
Andrew Jones MP cut the ribbon to officially open the new base. He said: “It has been wonderful to see the way that Carers’ Resource has grown and developed over the years.
“The last few years have been particularly challenging, because of all the impacts we have seen through Covid. One of the things that has been so acute has been the loss of support networks, and carers need support networks.
“Being a carer cuts across geography, age, demographics; there’s a relentlessness to it, even if we love very much those who we are caring for. It is still a tiring and draining thing to do. You would never do anything else, because it is a part of loving those nearest to us, but it still means you are under some pressures. And those support networks are a big part of helping that care to be delivered. So if they are not around, it is particularly tough for carers.
“A key part of the support network that we have had in our area has been this organisation, and it’s great to see this next stage.”
He told Carers’ Resource staff: “Congratulations on what you have done, and good luck for the future, you’ve played a very valuable role in supporting those who need help in our area.”
Chris Whiley, Carers’ Resource CEO, said: “We’re delighted to be moving into this new, more suitable building, and I’d like to thank all those who have supported us.
“Carers’ Resource is going from strength to strength, having just secured a new contract to work with young and adult carers in Harrogate, Craven and Selby. It’s an exciting time for the charity but there is also a huge need for support, particularly with the impact of the last two years. We are seeing more and more carers coming forward who desperately need our services, and we are committed to helping them.”
Those attending the event included The Spa Lodge Brethren who supported the Carers’ Resource application to West Riding Masonic Charities to fund essential items for the new premises, and Knaresborough Rotary Club, stalwart supporters of services for young carers. Anne Smyth, who founded Carers’ Resource and was awarded an OBE by the Queen in 2013 for her services to carers, also attended.
The full address of the new Carers’ Resource base is: Unit 3, Grove Park Court, Grove Park Terrace, Harrogate HG1 4DP.
The contact telephone numbers remain the same: 01423 500 555 or 0808 501 5939.
