A patchwork quilt, designed and handmade by local carers, has been unveiled in Bradford.

Hanging at the HandMade in Bradford exhibition to mark Carers Week 2012, the quilt is the result of a weekly crafts group, attended by 12 carers from across the district.

More than a hundred squares make up the quilt, all of which have been completed using crafts including cross-stitch, paints, pictures and poems.

The group is a partnership project between Carers Connection, part of Bradford District Care Trust, and Bradford Cathedral, who provide facilities and volunteers to help the group.

Mohammed Mahboob, activity co-ordinator, said: “Carers who attend the group do a range of crafts, but the quilt was a great idea as it meant those who may be housebound temporarily due to their caring roles could still contribute to the final result.”

One of the carers who took part is Ann Brooksbank.

Despite caring for her husband who was left with dysphasia after a heart attack and major stroke for nearly nine years, Ann continues to work part-time for a local trade company, and is at the forefront of craft activity groups for other carers.

Ann said: “Since my husband’s stroke, he has been unable to speak, has no use in his right arm and is unsteady on his feet. It has been tough, and at times in the past I did feel alone and stressed – so much so I had a nervous breakdown.”

Things started to look up for Ann when she started to access Carers Connection, an advice and support service hosted by Bradford District Care Trust.

“Like many carers, I had started to become isolated, but I soon realised the importance of staying socially-engaged,” she said.

“When we get together, we have a lot of fun. There’s always someone there that can cheer you up. It’s important to have time to unwind, and doing crafts such as the patchwork quilt or making cards helps you relax and not think about other pressures in your life. I’d recommend it to any carers.”

For more information about Carers Connections, visit: bdct.nhs.uk/carers.