Carers Week recognises the challenges Carers face and celebrates their selfless dedication. With 5.8 million Carers across the UK and it’s estimated that unpaid Carers save the UK economy £184 billion each year.

This year’s theme, “Caring About Equality”, highlights the challenges Carers face and the inequalities many experience — from access to support and services to financial and employment barriers.

Recognising and supporting unpaid Carers in Central Bedfordshire

Who is a Carer?
A Carer is anyone, including children and adults who looks after a family member, partner or friend who needs help because of their illness, frailty, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction and cannot cope without their support. The care they give is unpaid and many give up or reduce work, miss out on education, or put aside personal development to fulfil their caring responsibilities.

There are over 25,000 unpaid Carers in Central Bedfordshire, many of whom may not realise they are Carers.

It’s likely that every one of us will have caring responsibilities at some time in our lives with the challenges faced by carers taking many forms. Some, in particular younger Carers, are not known to be Carers. They don’t tell relatives, friends or health and care professionals about their responsibilities because of a fear of separation, guilt, pride or other reasons.

If you’re helping someone who is older, disabled, or living with a long-term condition — whether a family member, neighbour, or friend — you are a Carer.

You’re not alone – help and support is available
There is a range of support and advice available.

Find support and advice on wellbeing to finances and employment on Central Bedfordshire Council’s website: www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/carers.

For support from Carers in Bedfordshire (including young carers 4 to 17) from Carers in Bedfordshire.

Throughout Carers Week discover national events and information on the Carers Week website, NHS England’s website and Mobilise.

Let’s work together to support and celebrate our unpaid Carers this week — and all year round.