Carers First would like to say a big 'Thank You' to Good Morning Britain’s, Kate Garraway for highlighting the real issues facing carers when she appeared on ITV’s Loose Women, on Thursday 8 June, during Carers Week (5 - 11 June 2023). Kate spoke about our recent Carers Week survey of over 1,000 carers which revealed how nearly half of unpaid carers don’t feel supported for what they do.
In our survey, when asked what would help carers feel more recognised, 54% of carers said greater public awareness of caring, 48% said greater access to financial support and 47% said greater recognition in healthcare settings, for example, in GP and hospital settings.
Kate, who cares for her husband Derek, recently made a critically acclaimed ITV documentary, ‘Caring For Derek’ about the issues she faced as a carer.
Over 5 million people identified as a carer in the 2021 Census and research by carer charities suggest the actual number of carers may be even higher. Carers First reaches over 250,000 carers a year, across the UK, providing personalised information and tailored support.
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.
If you need support as a carer, or you know someone who does then Carers First are here to help.
Online Help and Advice
Visit our online support section where we have provided advice and guidance on a range of relevant topics to help you in your caring role.