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

As part of National Carers Week, the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s Teatime Trio are performing a special Concert for Carers, celebrating the invaluable contributions made by unpaid Carers to both their families and to the community.

Forward Carers is proud to support this exceptional concert, in partnership with BCP Council, being held by the BSO on Tuesday 11 June 2024 from 2:00pm to 3:30pm at The Spire in Poole. We hope you can join us for a relaxed performance of classical and chamber music alongside familiar arrangements from popular musicals and the silver screen.

Spaces are limited so make sure you book your tickets at Concert for Carers – Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (bsolive.com) and enjoy the opportunity to unwind and feel valued.

The Teatime Trio are three Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra musicians who frequently perform concerts specifically developed for people living with dementia. Eluned (harp), Owain (flute) and Kate (cello) perform across the southwest and they are excited to be performing for an audience of Carers for the first time.

Tickets cost £6 each, which includes a hot drink and a delicious cake to enjoy whilst socialising with other Carers during the interval.

Carers Week is just around the corner, and it’s time to recognise and celebrate the incredible contributions of unpaid carers in our community. From saving the economy millions to providing essential care for loved ones, Carers play a vital role. This year’s theme, “Putting Carers on the Map,” aims to raise awareness about the challenges they face and ensure better support for their needs.

Forward Carers have come together with some partners from our Carers Card Directory to create these events for you to enjoy!  

1. Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra – Concert For Carers

• Date: Tuesday, 11th June
• Time: 2:00 PM
• Cost: £6 (includes tea and cake)
• Details: Join us for a delightful concert by the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. Relax, enjoy the music, and connect with fellow Carers. Learn more and book your ticket here: https://bsolive.com/events/concerts-for-carers/

2. What does the Carers Leave Act mean for you as an unpaid working Carer?

• Date: Tuesday, 11th June
• Time: 7:00 – 8:00 PM
• Cost: Free (Online event)
• Details: Explore the implications of the Carers Leave Act and how it affects you as an unpaid working Carer. Register here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/what-does-the-carers-leave-act-mean-for-you-as-an-unpaid-working-carer-tickets-886308782427

3. Blandford Museums Tour with Cream Tea & Luncheon

• Date: Wednesday, 12th June
• Time: 10:00 AM
• Cost: Free (bookable event)
• Details: Discover the rich history of Blandford at the town museum. Enjoy a cream tea and connect with other Carers. Book your spot here  https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/blandford-museums-tour-with-cream-tea-luncheon-for-unpaid-carers-tickets-906113709497  or if you know someone who is not tech savvy, they can just turn up on the day! 

Other Activities

Throughout Carers Week, various events and activities are happening across Dorset. Visit ourdorset.org.uk for a comprehensive program of events. https://ourdorset.org.uk/carers-week-2024/

My name is Rachel, I am in my early 50’s and a Carer for two members of my family. An adult stepson who has Mild Learning Disability (MLD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I was in a partnership business with my husband successfully running for more than ten years. This suited my Caring role. Covid and the changes in the economy hit us hard leading me to consider part-time work. I was attracted to working with my employer because it was clear from the outset that they were a Carer Friendly Employer. I had never seen this before and was instantly curious. The project was perfect for my skill set and decades of experience. I could work from home, work flexibly with my hours, all of which made it attractive. The interview process was clearly set up to get to know me and understand what I could bring to the project. This friendlier approach enabled me to be open about my Caring role from the start.   

Three months into my job my husband was diagnosed with an aggressive Cancer. Our world and family life changed dramatically overnight. Due to the normalising and valuing the caring role within the organisation, I felt able to reach out for a 1-1 with my manager and had incredible support from her and the wider team. I was trusted to reflect on my own needs and manage my workflow accordingly, with the team stepping in if needed. There was a clear message that my family life must come first and trusted my work ethic, knowing I would not want the projects to suffer due to my circumstances. I able to step back from in person work because of shielding and was covered by team members. I was able to manage my workload and calendar around medical appointments, and moments of feeling vulnerable or fatigued. New solutions to meeting our targets were discussed and actioned together.  

As a household we lost our income over night, I was now the main income provider. My manager checked that we were accessing wider support and ensured I knew the support available to me within our organisation, including reminding me of the healthcare package provided. Our Carers Policy and menopause Policy was so helpful, it is clarity provided reassurance that my wellbeing was at the heart of the company. Due to all of this, I was able to increase my hours. In addition, because of their SMART four-day week, was promoted to a full-time senior manager. This was astonishing to me. That in a crisis, I was not only able to maintain my work but gained a promotion. This is a testament to these various aspects coming together to support me emotionally, and financially. I am now passionate about how Carers can be supported in the workplace so employers can not only maintain but attract valuable staff. For me, working is a much-needed normality and respite.   

April brings the long awaited Carers Leave Act  into effect on the 6^th April 2024. 

This is the result of a long campaign to ensure that those with Caring responsibilities in addition to their paid working role, have some protection in law.  Whether you are currently a working Carer or a Carer considering returning to work, this is something to know more about. 

Keep an eye out for our online Discovery sessions, telling you all about it in June! We will provide you a FREE event link in May’s Newsletter.

The Carer’s Leave Act has opened up many more possibilities for carers who are employed.

• The Carer’s Leave Act covers employees in England, Wales and Scotland. 
• Employees are entitled to one week’s ( 5 days) unpaid leave per year if providing or arranging care for someone with a long-term care need. 
• This leave can be taken flexibly (in half or full days) for planned and foreseen caring commitments.  
• It is available from the first day of employment. 
• It provides the same employment protections to employees as other forms of family-related leave, including protection from dismissal.  

The law doesn’t state what type of care this includes but it is intended to cover a range of caring situations. These could include things like taking someone to a medical appointment, supporting someone with personal care, arranging visits with health professionals or organising care for the future.

It is interesting to note that an employer can’t require an employee to supply evidence that they are caring so it is up to you to identify that you are caring and are requesting the leave. If you haven’t already notified your employer of your Caring role, now might be a good time. Many Carers use their Carer Friendly ID card, for this purpose, including a photocopy in their HR file so all future managers know their circumstance sand can offer support.  

You are required to give a minimum of three days notice

This leave is intended for planned and foreseen caring commitments. If the situation is urgent, employees have the legal right to take a reasonable amount of time off work to deal with an emergency involving someone who relies on them for help

This leave requirement is unpaid, therefore your employer does not have to pay you for this time. But many will, it is considered best practice. 

Have you got a good experience of working for a Carer Friendly Employer?

If you have an employer who is very understanding about the caring responsibilities that you have and offers any kind of flexibility or has any Carer policies in place, please tell them about Forward Carers Carer Friendly Employer Commitment Mark that they can apply for.

If you feel that your employer would benefit from finding out how they can support staff who juggle a caring role, you could tell your HR department or line manger about Carer Friendly Workplace Training that is available.

Do you feel your employer needs support around considering how to support Carers in their workforce?

We can approach them to see if they would like our support! 

Parent Carers have a different legal protection that has been in place for some time, they can take up to 18 weeks’ leave to look after their child. This is separate to Carer’s Leave. Further information about the Carer’s Leave Act is available on the Government website.