The ME Association has joined Age UK, Carers Trust, Carers UK, MDNA, Oxfam, Rethink Mental Illness and the Lewy Body Society, to highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK.
This year the theme is ‘Putting Carers on the Map‘ highlighting the invaluable contributions of carers across the UK and ensuring their voices are heard loud and clear. Together we want to help increase the visibility of carers among politicians, employers and throughout our communities. And by raising awareness we hope they will better recognise the challenges unpaid carers face and help them access the support they deserve.
Part of putting carers on the map is about listening to and amplifying carers' voices, and as such, you'll find carers' stories on the Carers Week website. It's so important to understand the different challenges and experiences that carers undergo, and to give them a platform to be heard by policymakers.
A carer is anyone who looks after a family member or friend who has a disability, mental or physical illness, addiction, or who needs extra help as they grow older. The impact of caring on all aspects of life from relationships and health to finances and work can be significant.
Whilst many feel that caring is one of the most important things they do, its challenges should not be underestimated. Caring without the right information and support can be tough. It is vitally important that we recognise the contribution carers make to their families and local communities, workplaces and society, and that they get the support they need.
Each day this week will have an additional focus:
- Monday: Launching the latest Carers Week research.
- Tuesday: Health and social care.
- Wednesday: Work and employment.
- Thursday: Younger carers.
- Friday: Older carers.
- Saturday: Mental health and wellbeing.
- Sunday: Reflections on Carers Week.