Carers must have their voices heard

Dear Editor,

The last 18 months has been a challenging period for many – not least unpaid carers; people looking after a family member or friend who has a disability, illness, mental health condition or who needs extra help as they grow older.

There are an estimated 370,000 adult carers in Wales. Many have cared round the clock for loved ones with complex needs, while others are providing additional support for a few hours a week. Some are looking after a relative in their own home, while others travel miles to care for a friend.

Last year 80% of carers in Wales responding to a Carers UK survey said they took on more care for the person they support during the crisis.

Carers have been pushed to breaking point and need support to resume their lives. It’s thanks to carers telling us about their experiences that we are able to explain to politicians and policy makers the challenges they face, and fight for lasting change.

It’s the 10th anniversary of Carers UK’s State of Caring Survey – by filling it in (at www.carersuk.org/survey) unpaid carers in Wales can help inform the UK’s most comprehensive study into people’s experiences of looking after a loved one.

As the nation plans its recovery from the pandemic, it has never been more important for unpaid carers to share their experiences.

Yours sincerely,
Claire Morgan
Director, Carers Wales