Carers Week runs from 8-14 June.
The campaign is all about shining a light on the wonderful people who take on this role.
It aims to let them know they are appreciated, and that they are not alone.
Prior to Covid-19, estimates suggest there were 9.1 million unpaid carers in the UK.
New figures suggest there are now an additional 4.5 million thanks to the pandemic. Typically these carers are helping loved ones, by doing everything from collecting medicine to ensuring food is in ready supply.
“Recognising the contribution of unpaid carers to our society and properly supporting them has never been more important than during this pandemic,” Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said.
“An additional 4.5 million people are caring for sick, older or disabled loved ones. That’s the NHS workforce three times over. It demonstrates the scale of the care being provided behind closed doors, mostly hidden from view.”
Age UK is there for you
Carers Week is supported by, among others, Age UK.
They say caring for a loved one can feel particularly difficult as we deal with the coronavirus.
Uncertainty about what you can and can’t do, the worry of potentially spreading the virus and the emotional demands that come with caring responsibilities can all take their toll.
More than 2 in 3 carers say their caring responsibilities have had a negative impact on their physical and mental wellbeing.
So, this Carers Week, Age UK wants to do what it can to help.
The charity has information and advice online, in print and through its helpline to support you, or someone you know who might need a some assistance themselves.
Whether it’s a practical issue, or some advice on how you can look after yourself emotionally, Age UK is there for you.
You can visit the website www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/care/helping-a-loved-one/
Or give the Age UK Advice Line a call on 0800 678 1602.
For more information on Carer’s Week, click here.
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Yvonne McKenzie I work on the Features team and admit to being nosy, so I love looking after the Between Friends letters and finding out all about our lovely readers. I also look after our health copy and enjoy writing about inspiring people that help make the articles in the magazine so interesting.
