Carer up for top award

7:10pm Saturday 15th September 2007

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A NEWPORT mum who has unselfishly devoted her life to caring for her ex-husband and daughter is in the running for a top award.

Elaine Sarsam, of Bettws, is one of four Welsh finalists in a UK-wide campaign to find the ITV Carer of the Year.

Mother-of-six Mrs Sarsam is a carer for her 25-year-old daughter Lydia and ex-husband Mukaram who both have manic depression.

Lydia also has learning difficulties and a sleep disorder.

Mrs Sarsam's dedication and support for her family is unwavering as she helps them with everyday tasks. She does not drive which makes life even more onerous.

Her daughter Sarah, who nominated her, said: "She is working non-stop all day as she has no other help...she needs this award as people don't know the hard work she does."

Her 60-year-old mum admitted she was shocked when Sarah told her about the nomination.

And she did not believe she was special. "I though I was doing really just what anybody else would do."

Mrs Sarsam agreed there should be more support for carers. She was grateful for the £48 she receives from the government for looking after Lydia but it is a round-the-clock labour of love.

"When you think of how many hours I put in, if they had to pay someone to do this job it would cost thousands a week."

ITV is seeking to highlight and reward the work of the nation's caring community - honouring unsung heroes whose dedication often goes unnoticed.

Viewers will able to vote for the Welsh winner next Friday and they will be invited to an awards ceremony in London in October.