THE Diocese of Carlisle is partnering with a Christian charity to provide free retreats for people who were frontline carers during the Covid pandemic.

Barrow and Furness MP, Simon Fell has put his support behind the scheme and is asking the public to get behind the Crowdfunder that is hoping to raise £20,000.

This project is hoped to achieve some much-needed respite for carers.

BARROW: MP Simon Fell

BARROW: MP Simon Fell

Mr Fell said “This is a fantastic project which will help some of the people who have had a harder job than others over the past year.

“It is so important to recognise that people who care for others need time to be able to look after themselves, and this project will give carers an opportunity to switch off and relax.”

The Bishop of Carlisle, the Rt Rev James Newcome, and who is the Church of England’s lead bishop for health and medical ethics, has welcomed the plans.

Bishop James said: “We are well aware of the huge sacrifices made by all of our frontline health workers during the pandemic. Day after day they have gone above and beyond and for that they have our huge thanks.

“So, it is only right that we look to support them in whatever way we can, with so many having been left exhausted by their efforts over this year and a half. I shall also be writing to all of our churches across the Diocese to bring this project to their attention in case they feel moved to offer financial help."

CHURCH: Bishop of Carlisle, the Rt Rev James Newcome

CHURCH: Bishop of Carlisle, the Rt Rev James Newcome

The proposals would see free retreats offered for 45 NHS staff members and others from the county at Rydal Hall the Diocese’s Christian Conference and Retreat Centre, near Ambleside.

Caring for the Carers is the idea of the Rev Prof Stephen Wright, spiritual director of the Sacred Space Foundation, a non-profit, non-denominational retreat centre and charitable trust located in the Lake District National Park.

Stephen said: “We’ve all clapped for our carers and now it’s time we proactively cared for them too.

"That is what this project is all about.

“We’re well aware of the burnout and exhaustion that so many are facing and so we just want to do our best to help their recovery in some small way.

"It will be an opportunity for individuals to recharge their batteries in whatever way they want to: to read, to walk, to enjoy Rydal’s grounds, to talk one-to-one or in groups.

"It would be completely up to them.”

A crowdfunding page has been set up where donations can be made. Furthermore, donations can be made via "Sacred Space Caring for the Carers Fund”, sort code 30-96-26, bank account 74754760.