Carer to receive MBE for services to the community

Bajrang Bahadur Mathur, popularly known as Baj, celebrated his 70th birthday this January. His most unexpected present came in the form of a letter informing him that Her Majesty the Queen has approved the New Year Honours List 2008 and he has been appointed Member of the British Empire - MBE - in recognition of his services to the community.

Mr Mathur feels very privileged to receive this honour and is looking forward to going to Buckingham Palace on 19 February 2008 to meet the Queen.

Baj and his wife Sharda cared for his elderly mother who suffered from dementia and Parkinsons disease until her death. During this time Baj came in contact with his local carers' centre, Hillingdon Carers. He joined the organisation and became its Chairman from 1996 until March 2007.

Baj explains that a carer is a person of any age, who takes on the responsibility of looking after a family member, friend or neighbour who is unable to manage without help, because of illness, disability, special need or frailty. Carers are unpaid irrespective of the hours of care they give and many do not even regard themselves as carers. These are the hidden carers in our community who may not be aware of the help and support that is available.

Mr Mathur has recently been elected to the Board of Director of Hillingdon Crossroads, a leading provider of respite to carers of all age groups and disabilities in their homes. Professionally, Baj is a retired Chartered Architect and Town Planner and worked with Harrow Council until he retired in 1993. He is still a member of the Executive Committee of Harrow Heritage Trust which is an amenity society.

Our congratulations to Baj on receiving this honour and best wishes for his continued charitable work.