This year, Forward Carers proudly celebrates a remarkable milestone: a decade of empowering unpaid Carers and championing Carer Friendly Communities. Since our establishment in 2014, our mission has been clear – to ensure that Carers are understood, valued, and supported in every aspect of their lives. We hope that whatever way Forward Carers has had input into your life and caring journey that it has been in a positive way.

A Decade of Dedication

Over the past ten years, Forward Carers has grown into an award-winning, not-for-profit social enterprise and Community Interest Company. By working alongside a network of trusted partners, we’ve extended our reach to provide tailored support to Carers of all ages across Walsall, Wiltshire, Dorset, Birmingham, and Dudley. Our journey has been defined by collaboration, innovation, and commitment to improving the lives of Carers.

Marking the Moment: Our 10-Year Anniversary Celebration

On 7th December, we marked this significant milestone with a celebratory event at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham. This special evening was a time for reflection and gratitude as we honoured the people and partnerships that have shaped our journey.

Reflecting on a Decade of Achievements

As we celebrate this milestone, we take pride in the progress we’ve made:

• Supporting More Carers: We’ve registered and supported over 41,746 unpaid Carers, providing essential resources and services that cater to their unique needs.
• Investing in Communities: Over the past decade, we’ve channelled £16.5 million into the not-for-profit sector, helping to ensure Carers have access to impactful, locally rooted support.
• Championing Carer Friendly Communities: Through our efforts, over 2,606 businesses have taken steps to become Carer Friendly, whether by offering discounts, undergoing Carer awareness training, or creating supportive workplaces.
• Making a Tangible Impact: Our support has made a real difference. After engaging with Forward Carers, 7 in 10 Carers report feeling more positive about their caring role and experiencing improved physical and mental health.
• Carers Voice Programme: Engaging nearly 1,000 Carers annually, this initiative ensures that Carer feedback informs and shapes our services. Our dedicated Carer Ambassadors play a vital role in amplifying the voices of Carers and ensuring our services remain effective.

Looking Ahead: Building on a Strong Foundation

Thank You!

Our success over the past ten years would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our partners, volunteers, and, most importantly, Carers themselves. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain inspired by the resilience and dedication of unpaid Carers and are determined to ensure they receive the recognition and support they deserve.

Registered charity BH Live is actively encouraging more Carers’ in the region to improve their own health and wellbeing by going along to their local leisure centre.

A recent report by Carers UK found that carers face many barriers preventing them from prioritising their health and wellbeing, including lack of time, lack of motivation, lack of funds, and lack of support.  

BCP residents who have a Carer Friendly ID Card or receive Carers Allowance are currently eligible to apply for BH Live Active’s Access scheme. This is a BH Live initiative that offers discounted leisure centre membership to individuals in receipt of certain benefits to make sport and leisure facilities more financially accessible. Nearly 1,000 members are currently supported by the scheme across the BCP region.

More than 33,000 people are estimated to be providing unpaid care across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole**. Only 2,000 people across the region are currently registered for a Carer Friendly ID Carer.  

As a social enterprise one of BH Live’s main social objectives is to encourage more people to participate in physical activity. This includes encouraging individuals to overcome social and financial barriers by offering free community events, a diverse range of health and wellbeing programmes, and concessionary activities. 

BH Live Active, Queen’s Park and Corfe Mullen are operated by BH Live. Sir David English Sports Centre is operated by BH Live in partnership with Bournemouth School Charitable Trust. Littledown Centre, Pelhams and Stokewood are operated by BH Live in partnership with BCP Council. 

Viv Galpin, Health and Wellbeing Manager for BH Live in Bournemouth, said; 

“Thousands of carers are currently undertaking the most amazing care work across the BCP region to support some of the most vulnerable people in our community. They often put their own needs to one side and that includes being regularly active in their local leisure centre.  

“Through our Access scheme and by working with local stakeholders such as Forward Carers, we are working to provide more support to carers so they can improve their health and wellbeing.”  

The Carer Friendly ID Card is a national scheme delivered by Forward Carers and is provided for free to Carers (aged 10+) registered with either the Carer Support Dorset service or BCP Carer Support. Forward Carers is commissioned by BCP and Dorset local authorities and is committed to supporting Carers nationally.  

More information about BH Live Active’s Access Scheme and discounted and concessionary memberships can be found at bhliveactive.org.uk/access-scheme.  

The Carer Friendly ID Card is provided by Forward Carers and is the official Carers ID Card for Dorset. Unpaid Carers that have not yet registered for their Carers ID Card, can find out more information at dorsetcarerscard.org.uk.   

Winter is a season of joy and celebration for many, with festivities like Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year’s Eve bringing families and friends together. However, for many unpaid carers, this period can be particularly challenging. The combination of financial pressures, emotional strain, and the demands of caring can make it difficult to fully participate in the season’s cheer.

Financial Pressures

Winter often brings increased expenses, from higher heating bills to the costs associated with holiday celebrations. For unpaid carers, who may already be struggling financially, these additional costs can be overwhelming. Reseach shows many carers cover the costs of care out of their own pockets, which can average around £7,200 annually – you can read more about this and other updates published by Carers UK last month here : Carers Rights Day report: Valuing Carers

There are several forms of financial support available, that can help, check if your eligible. 

• Warm Home Discount Scheme: A one-off payment of £150 to help with energy bills Warm Home Discount Scheme: Overview – GOV.UK

• Cold Weather Payments: Payments made during periods of very cold weather.Cold Weather Payment: Overview – GOV.UK

• Winter Fuel Payments: Annual payments to help with heating costs. Winter Fuel Payment: Overview – GOV.UK

• Household Support Fund: Local councils can provide support for essential costs Get help with the cost of living from your local council – GOV.UK

Emotional Strain and Bereavement

The festive season can also be a poignant reminder of loved ones who have passed away. Celebrating without someone you cared for can bring up feelings of grief and loneliness. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and seek support when needed. Bereavement milestones, such as the first holiday season without a loved one, can be particularly tough.

For bereavement support, you may find these sites helpful :

• Cruse Bereavement Care: Offers support for children, young people, and adults when someone dies. They provide face-to-face, telephone, email, and website support Home – Cruse Bereavement Support

• Samaritans: Provides confidential support for anyone in distress If you’re having a difficult time | Samaritans

• Help for Heroes: Supporting Veterans and their families  Home Page – Help For Heroes

Celebrating with Someone Who is Ill or in Hospital

For Carers looking after someone who is ill or in hospital, the festive season can be a time of mixed emotions. While others are celebrating, Carers may be dealing with the realities of illness and hospital visits. If possible, find ways for yourself and the person you’re caring for to take part in these celebrations, even if it’s in a small way. Great Ormond Street hospital has some suggestions: Top tips for your stay at hospital this festive season | Great Ormond Street Hospital

Staying Connected

Isolation can be a significant issue, especially during the winter months. Staying connected with others who understand your situation can provide much-needed support. Forward Carers offers online “Kissing it Better” Zoom groups, which are free social sessions for Carers. These sessions provide an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and find support from fellow Carers. They are held every Monday and Friday at 10:30 am and Thursday at 5pm.

Whether you are celebrating or managing a difficult moment, we wish you a safe and nurturing winter break with those you care about and care for.

Protection Against Discrimination and Harassment

If you’re an unpaid Carer for an elderly or disabled person, it’s essential to know that the law recognises and protects your rights. Caring for someone with specific needs can sometimes mean encountering unfair treatment or barriers in various aspects of life. Fortunately, the Equality Act 2010 provides essential protections for Carers across England, Wales, and Scotland, and similar protections apply under legislation in Northern Ireland. This article explains how the law protects you against discrimination and harassment, how it applies to your caring role, and what to do if you experience unfair treatment.

1. How Does the Law Protect Carers Against Discrimination?

Under the Equality Act 2010, unpaid Carers have legal protections against discrimination and harassment, as the law considers you as ‘associated’ with a person who has a protected characteristic, such as age or disability. This legal safeguard means that you can’t be treated unfairly due to your connection to the person you care for.

In Northern Ireland, similar protections for Carers exist under the Human Rights Act and Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act, which requires public bodies to promote equality for Carers. This recognition is an important step toward building more inclusive, Carer Friendly Communities.

2. Where Could Unfair Treatment Happen?

Unfair treatment can happen in many areas of life, and the Equality Act protects against discrimination in:

• Employment – from job applications to workplace practices
• Education – in schools, colleges, or universities
• Housing – whether you’re buying or renting
• Goods and Services – covering shops, restaurants, and public services
• Public Authorities – including councils, the NHS, and local authority schools

When discrimination happens in any of these areas, it’s essential to understand your rights, as the Equality Act may provide protection against unfair treatment.

3. Protected Characteristics Under the Equality Act

The Equality Act protects individuals against discrimination based on specific characteristics, called “protected characteristics.” These include:

• Age
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage or civil partnership
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race
• Religion or belief
• Sex
• Sexual orientation

As a Carer, you may face discrimination by association if you experience unfair treatment due to your connection with a person who has one or more of these characteristics. This is particularly relevant for Carers looking after someone with a disability, as the law specifically protects against discrimination in this context.

4. Different Types of Discrimination
The Equality Act outlines several types of discrimination that Carers may encounter:

Direct Discrimination: Direct discrimination happens when someone is treated less favourably due to a protected characteristic, such as disability. For example, if you’re denied a job because of your caring responsibilities, this could be direct discrimination.

Indirect Discrimination: Indirect discrimination refers to rules or policies that seem neutral but disadvantage people with certain protected characteristics. If a workplace policy inadvertently disadvantages Carers, this could be considered indirect discrimination.

Discrimination by Association: This form of discrimination happens when you’re treated unfairly because of your association with a person who has a protected characteristic. For instance, if your employer treats you unfavourably because of your role as a Carer for a disabled family member, this is known as discrimination by association.

Harassment: Harassment includes any unwanted behaviour linked to a protected characteristic that creates an intimidating, hostile, or humiliating environment. Carers may experience harassment due to their association with someone who has a protected characteristic, such as disability.

5. Taking Action if You Experience Discrimination

If you believe you or the person you care for has been treated unfairly due to a protected characteristic, you can take the following steps:

1. Record the Incident: Note what happened, where, and when, as well as any witnesses.
2. Seek Advice: Organisations such as Citizens Advice, Carers UK, and disability rights groups can provide guidance.
3. Raise the Issue: If possible, raise the matter informally with the individual or organisation involved. Many issues can be resolved through open communication.
4. Consider Legal Action: In serious cases, you may want to seek legal advice on whether formal action is an option.

Your Rights Matter

Discrimination and harassment can create significant additional challenges for Carers, who already have demanding roles. By understanding your rights, you can better protect yourself and advocate for fair treatment. 

Remember, you deserve to live and work in an environment that respects their invaluable contribution. If you need support, do not hesitate to reach out to organisations that understand Carer rights and can provide assistance.

November hosts the annual Carers Rights Day and this year it is on Thursday 21^st  2024. Over that week, there will be local and national events you can attend to learn more about your entitlement to help, advice and support. Keep your eye out for our November Newsletter to see the events Forward Carers, local councils and our partner organisations will be providing. Want to know more about this? Learn about why we have this annual awareness day and the themes for this year? 

History and Importance

Carers Rights Day is an annual event in the UK that raises awareness about the rights of unpaid Carers and ensures you receive the support you deserve. With over 5.7 million unpaid Carers in the UK, many people don’t even realise they are Carers, and may be unaware of their legal rights and entitlements. This day is a vital opportunity to highlight the challenges you face and to remind everyone of the invaluable role Carers play in our communities.

Why It Matters

Understanding and asserting your rights can make a world of difference. It empowers unpaid Carers to seek the support and benefits available to you. This year, Carers Rights Day falls on 21st November 2024, with the theme “Recognising Your Rights.” The aim is to help Carers identify your rights and access support, whether that’s in the workplace, healthcare, or through social services.

Key Themes for 2024

This year’s focus is on three main areas:

• Awareness: Educating Carers about your rights, such as Carer’s Leave, the right to request flexible working, and protection from discrimination.
• Support: Encouraging Carers to access available resources, like Carer’s Assessments and support during hospital discharges.
• Advocacy: Promoting the need for better recognition and support for Carers within the community and workplace.

Upcoming Event: “What Are Your Employment Rights as an Unpaid Working Carer?”

To support our community of unpaid Carers, we’re hosting a FREE online session titled “What Are Your Employment Rights as an Unpaid Working Carer?” This session will cover your rights in the workplace and offer guidance on how to approach your employer about your circumstances.

Event Details:

• Date: 21st November
• Time: 7 PM (60-minute session)
• Booking Link:  https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1016565333277?aff=oddtdtcreator

Join us to learn more about your rights and how to advocate for yourself as a Carer. Your role is invaluable, and understanding your rights is the first step towards ensuring you receive the support you deserve. For further reading and learn about Carers UK campaign’s click below.

Check out this offer from Harold G Walker Solicitors!

How are you? We want to check in and see how things are going, with some wise words from the Carers we speak with. Looking after yourself is vital, but it can be challenging to prioritise when you are juggling many areas of your life.  

Carers have shared the following reflections…

Try to do at least one new thing each month to look after your own well-being. Our Wellbeing Directory might give you some new ideas.

Get support ensure you are receiving the support available for you and the person you care for. Want to know who your local Carer Support Services are? Have a look at the websites below to find out.

Register as a Carer with your GP to access FREE flu vaccinations and keep up to date with your Covid boosters. Speak to your GP about having a FREE Carer Health check. If you have ongoing health conditions, prioritise your health reviews, too.  Set reminders for any repeat prescriptions so you don’t run out of meds.

Stay Active, explore ways to build activity into your daily routine and do things you enjoy.  Get out and about; even a short walk around the block or standing on your front doorstep, fresh air and a change of scenery can make a significant difference.  

• Many local leisure centres have low-cost memberships, some of these are on our Wellbeing Directory.
• You might be eligible for a discounted rate or a FREE exercise programme from your GP. Learn more about this by searching for Exercise Referral Scheme to see if you have access to it in your area.  
• Here is an online programme from the NHS Get active – Better Health – NHS (www.nhs.uk)  and specifically for Carers Physical activity and wellbeing videos | Carers UK

Eat healthily and stay hydrated. Have a drinking water bottle with you and sip it throughout the day. Here are interesting facts as to why! https://www.nhsinform.scot/campaigns/hydration/

Not much of a cook, or do you want to learn nutritional eating habits?  There are programmes to help; you can search online or visit your local Library or leisure centre to see what they know. Your local Council and GP surgery will also be aware of local programmes

Make time to relax. Sit, breathe and rest. Have you tried learning some techniques to help with relaxation? Here is a NHS guide to Mindfulness Relaxation Mindfulness – NHS (www.nhs.uk) ) and here is a link to the NHS guide to Meditation How to meditate for beginners – Mental wellbeing tips – Every Mind Matters – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Talk about it. Ensure you have opportunities to discuss your unique Carer journey and experiences. One of the most important things is having safe spaces to speak honestly and freely about your experiences as a Carer.  It can help release tension and worries, and you can gain from how others have managed their situations. Did you know we have online Zoom groups and a Private Carers Facebook Group?

Ensure you have opportunities to speak with trusted family members and friends. Consider professional support; somebody trained to hold the space for you and support is best. Further information on how this can help and where to access support Talking therapies and counselling – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Thank you for reading this post! We hope the tips and insights from fellow Carers have been helpful. Caring for someone can be challenging, but remember, you’re not alone. Our community is here to support you every step of the way. Feel free to share your own tips, or reach out for support. Together, we can create a stronger, more Carer Friendly Dorset. 💙

Did you know many visitor attractions and leisure facilities offer free entry for unpaid Carers? If the person you care for needs you to access the venue or event (for example, to go to a visitor attraction), then they are covered by the Equality Act 2010. For example, they may need your support physically, emotionally or due to their sensory needs, like supporting someone with Autism. 

Every visitor attraction and leisure facility has its own policy, but many do not charge for accompanying the person you care for.

It doesn’t matter if the person you care for pays when they visit or if they have an annual prepaid pass or membership. You can use our Carer Friendly ID card to verify that you are a registered unpaid Carer. 

If you already have your Carers ID Card you don’t need to worry, but if you’re a Carer in Dorset and need to get your card follow this guidance. If you live in Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole, register with BCP Carers Support here or call 01202 128787. If you are caring for someone living in Dorset Council area, register with Carer Support Dorset here or call 0800 368 8349.

How to make sure your rights are protected 

Unfortunately, not all places promote this or train their staff accordingly. Consider checking over the phone or via email before you visit. 

Alternatively, could you ask for FREE Essential Carer entry on arrival and show them your Carers ID card.  

If you are not happy with the response you receive, note who you spoke to and what they said. To complain, you can write to the visitor attraction using one of the template letters from The Equality Advisory & Support Service (EASS). Search for the Direct Discrimination Complaint – Services in the EASS resources section.

How to fill out the letter template: You’ll need to fill it out with the relevant information and then send it directly to the visitor attraction or organisation. The information you add should be brief and to the point. It needs to say how the situation has discriminated against the person you care for. For example, you can say, “I believe the person I care for is being discriminated against on the grounds of disability because…”

If you need further advice, you can contact the Equality Advisory & Support Service directly on 0808 800 0082.

We hope this information helps you enjoy life as well as navigate your caring journey.

At Forward Carers, we understand the vital role that Carers play in our communities. Whether you’re providing care for a loved one or supporting others in need, your experiences and insights are invaluable. That’s why we’re excited to share an important opportunity for you to make your voice heard and help shape the future of support for Carers.

About Carers UK

Carers UK is the dedicated to improving the lives of Carers. They work to provide Carers with the support, advice, and resources they need. From advocacy and campaigning to offering practical help and guidance, Carers UK is committed to making life better for those who dedicate their time and energy to caring for others.

Why Your Input Is Crucial

Carers UK is conducting a comprehensive survey to gather feedback directly from Carers. This survey aims to capture your experiences, challenges, and needs so that Carers UK can better understand and address the issues that matter most to you. Your participation will provide essential data that can influence policy, improve services, and enhance the support available to Carers nationwide.

As we approach a UK General Election, it is vital that we use Carers’ voices to campaign for change from the next UK Government and from Governments in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. We want to hear your experiences of being a Carer in 2024.

How You Can Make a Difference

By taking a few minutes to complete the survey, you’ll be contributing to a larger effort to improve the quality of life for all Carers. Your insights will help shape the initiatives and resources that Carers UK and other organisations develop. This is your chance to have a direct impact on the future of Carer support.

Take the Survey Now

Ready to share your experiences and make a difference? Click the link below to participate in the Carers UK survey. Your feedback is vital, and together, we can create a brighter future for all Carers.

👉 Take the Survey Now!

Thank you for your dedication and support. Your voice truly matters, and we appreciate your time and input.

Stay Connected

For more updates and information on how we’re supporting Carers, follow Forward Carers on Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram and join our community. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.

Today marks the start of Carers Week 2024 and the publication of Carers UK’s Carers Week report: No Choice But To Care.

The report shows that 10 million adults – 62% of current and former unpaid Carers – had no choice in taking on their caring role due to a lack of alternative care options, according to analysis of YouGov polling data.

This research revealed that the impact of caring has been more negative than positive for all areas unpaid Carers were asked about, particularly for their

• physical health (53%)
• mental health (63%)
• employment (48%)
• and finances and savings (47%).

The negative impacts as a result of caring were felt most strongly by those who had no choice but to take on an unpaid caring role as well as women and those aged 45-54.

Gender Differences
The report also found that women were more likely than men to say unpaid caring had a ‘very’ negative impact on mental health (27% compared with 19%) and on their job and ability to work (22% compared with 16%).

A higher proportion of women said unpaid caring had a ‘very’ or ‘slightly’ negative impact on their relationships compared with men (42% compared with 30%) and on their physical health compared to men (59% compared with 42%).

Age Differences
Those aged 45 to 54 were most likely to have no choice when taking on an unpaid caring role (70%) and were most likely to say that unpaid caring has had a ‘very’ or ‘slightly’ negative impact on their finances and savings (56%), job and ability to work (64%) and pensions (30%), compared to other age groups.**

Dorothy Cook is an unpaid Carer from Bristol. She stopped working over a decade ago to care for her husband Melvin, who has a rare brain disease. Dorothy said:

“If I had been asked 15 years ago where I saw my life in 2024, I would never have dreamed it would be as a full-time carer. I had started my own business and it was thriving. I worked long hours and it wasn’t always easy. But I will honestly say that being a full-time unpaid carer has been the toughest and most challenging role of all.

“I was forced into giving up my dream life, job, friends, relationships and my physical and mental health suffered. I am financially poorer. I do it because of my love for someone who has found themselves dependent on me. I also have little choice about caring because the system is unable to provide the care my husband needs. It leaves me without enough breaks and the essential support I also need for my own health. I’m often caring 24 hours a day, 7 days a week which is exhausting.”

Read the full report.

National Carers Strategy is needed in England and Wales
The report recommends the establishment of a National Carers Strategy, review and reform of social security benefits for Carers and better workplace protections and workplace support for unpaid carers. To ensure Carers’ health and wellbeing is better supported, the report recommends a new duty on the NHS to have regard to unpaid Carers as well as further investment in social care and Carers’ breaks. The report also makes recommendations aimed at employers, public bodies and specific recommendations for the UK nations.

In this General Election year, Carers UK is campaigning for better recognition and commitment for unpaid Carers from all political parties.

An additional YouGov Political Omnibus poll of over 4,200 members of the public showed widespread backing for more support to be given to unpaid Carers. 73% said unpaid Carers should receive more support from the next Government, particularly financial support and investment in social care.

Sign Carers UK’s Open Letter to the Prime Minister
We encourage you to raise your voice in support of Carers in the run up to the General Election on 4 July. Please sign Carers UK’s open letter to the future Prime Minister. You can also write to the local candidates standing in your constituency.

We are thrilled to announce that the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) has recognised our support for unpaid Carers in Dorset and approved us as an example of Great Practice.

ADASS’ Supporting Carers Hub showcases Great Practice and has been created as a resource for social care teams and other organisations working to support unpaid Carers in communities throughout England.

The online Hub resource includes some great practise where teams have been able to share some evidence of the positive impact they’ve had and also great ideas they are just starting to try out. 

We are delighted to be included in this useful resource. You can take a look at our entry here.

Watch our video to find out all about our support for Carers who look after someone living in Dorset