Together we can make caring visible, valued and supported
Carers Week (6-12 June) is a national, annual campaign set to shine a light on unpaid carers and
highlight the complex challenges they face each day. It helps raise awareness on unpaid care,
and what steps we can all take to make a difference.
After the pandemic, unpaid carers are being faced with even more uncertainty and stress as the cost of living soars. They are being pushed to breaking point as they struggle to pay their bills and are exhausted, with no end in sight for respite.
We need to come together to ensure caring is visible, valued and supported.
Who are carers?
Carers are the partners, friends and family members helping their loved ones get the most out of life.
A carer is anyone, including children and adults who provide support and care to their loved ones without payment.
The person they help usually can’t manage without their support, this could be due to old age, illness, disability, mental health problems or an addiction.
What carers are saying
Unpaid carers are struggling physically, emotionally and financially in this current economic climate.
In a recent poll we found that over a staggering 74% of carers are worried about the cost of living crisis, and over two thirds are concerned about taking a break from caring.
On top of this, a post-pandemic NHS, juggling work alongside caring duties and keeping themselves and their loved ones Covid-safe are all contributing to an unbearable level of pressure for carers in Bath and North East Somerset.
Sarah* shares her experience
Sarah*, a local carer who looks after her adult brother shares her worries about the cost of living increase:
“I am worried about when winter comes. I lose around £300 every month to care for him. I don’t qualify for benefits, I fall through the cracks. If I work longer hours, he will be affected, and his health will deteriorate. Do I make a choice to go back to full-time work and risk my brother's health?”
Take action!
Join us in supporting the Carers Week campaign by calling on the government
for a Recovery and Respite Plan for unpaid carers.
This would enable carers like Sarah to get the support they need, as soon as possible.
Who are we?
We are a local charity dedicated to supporting the thousands of people caring for their friends and family members in Bath and the surrounding areas.
We provide trusted information, advice and support to carers of all ages. As well as vital services to improve their health and wellbeing.