The nation was shocked by the tragic death of George Michael who died on Christmas Day aged just 53. He was arguably the biggest British pop star of the 1980s and a true global superstar. Out of the tragedy of his life cut short, it has been heartening to learn of his previously unknown generosity to charities and those in serious need, not only with his considerable wealth but with his time, such as secretly helping out in person at homeless shelters.
Almost no one could afford to be as financially generous to those in need as what George Michael was, but it was his not wanting any publicity for doing so that I particularly admire and respect. We often hear nice stories of people helping others and some will get recognition for that which is good to see, but we should never forget those who quietly get on helping others and whom we don’t always see in front of a camera every time they help others. Our country is full of unsung heroes and every time someone is rightly recognised for such generosity towards others, such as in the New Year’s Honours, it is nice when they say that they receive it for everyone who does what they do.
One area where there is a huge amount of caring for others is in the personal care of those whose health, condition, or disability means that they need daily help in many of their basic requirements. In 2012 in England alone, there was an estimated 5.5 million people delivering care for relatives and friends, and 1.5 million people employed in adult social care. We literally have a growing army of people quietly caring for others every day.
Most people employed in the delivery of care are not highly paid but perform an invaluable service to vulnerable people which can often be very challenging. I know many people personally who work or who have worked as care workers and I believe society needs to give greater recognition to the outstanding work they do. The National Living Wage is a good start.
Councillor Duncan Crow, Leader of Crawley Borough Council Conservative Group
4th January 2017