Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. It also helps people who don’t think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact on unpaid carers’ lives – not only because of the increased amount of care that many provided, but many people also took on new caring responsibilities for the relatives and friends who are disables, ill or older and who need support.
The theme for Carers Week 2022 is “make caring visible, valued and supported”. It is believed that unpaid carers and the challenges of caring should be recognised in all areas of life, caring should be valued and respected by everyone in our society, and carers should have access to information and support they need, where and when they need it.
A carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to a family member or friend who has a disability, illness, mental health condition, addiction, or who needs extra help as they grow older. It isn’t someone who volunteers or is employed to provide support. Caring impacts 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. Without the right information and support it can be tough!
If you are a carer, you are not alone and support is available across Sunderland and South Tyneside. Many organisations offer support to carers via telephone or online, and face-to-face, and you can find out how to access support by contacting them directly. Follow the relevant link below to find out how to access local support:
