Carers Week 7-13 June 2021

Published: 08/06/2021

It is estimated that 4.5 million people in the UK have become unpaid carers as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Alison Morse and her Dad

My Dad used to hold my hand, now I have to hold his.

A carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to a family member or friend who has a disability, illness, mental health condition, or who needs extra help as they grow older. to pro

Caring for Dad is a 24/7 job as he is unable to do anything for himself. I dress him, wash him, commode him, feed him, the list goes on

It can be a very positive and rewarding experience, providing care for someone you love – but not if you feel so much pressure that you reach breaking point.

That one person who asks me, ‘HOW I AM’, and who understands the commitment I have in Dad’s well-being, makes all the difference

Every part of society, from hospital to workplace, school to leisure services, must take account of the needs of carers. Doing things a little bit differently, in order to make life easier for carers.

Employers should adopt carer friendly working, with the flexibility that can help an employee to juggle work and caring successfully. Hospitals and GPs can help carers by making sure they have their own needs assessed, and that they are made aware of any support that is available for them.

Some of this information was gathered by Independent Living - Providing free information and advice since 1999

I love my Dad and the times the old sparkle comes back in his eyes, especially as he recounts his boyhood tales, makes it all worth it