THE sad case of the 82-year-old man left at the Oldchurch Hospital in Romford as reported in the national press highlights the stress carers face on a daily basis. A carer here in York said to me only last week that no one who has not lived with dementia can know the strain it creates.

One of the best ways to help carers is to give them a break. Even two hours a week can make a significant difference.

If you are a carer of an older person living in the City of York Council area, I would encourage you to get in touch with 'In Safe Hands' Age Concern, York. We offer a variety of short breaks which could help you to go on caring. Telephone 01904 627995/621020 Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm or write to me at the address below.

Monica Dunham,

Organiser, 'In Safe Hands',

Age Concern,

Norman Collinson House,

70 Walmgate, York, YO1 9TL.

Updated: 11:07 Wednesday, November 24, 2004