There are thousands of unpaid carers living in Northumberland. Carers UK estimates that carers save the UK economy £132 billion per year – an average of £19,336 per carer – demonstrating the vital role carers play in our community. The care provided by families just over the course of the pandemic was valued at £135 billion, and this amount is still climbing.

Carers Northumberland is passionate about supporting and empowering unpaid carers across Northumberland.

This year’s Carers Rights Day campaign will focus on raising awareness of the rights of unpaid carers. The pandemic has had a massive impact on the lives of carers, affecting access to services, the ability to juggle work and care and much more. That’s why it’s more important than ever that carers are aware of their rights.

In a recent survey of nearly 6,000 carers, Carers UK found that:

• 4 in 5 unpaid carers are providing more care for relatives
• 78% reported that the needs of the person they care for have increased during the pandemic
• Two thirds worried about how they will cope through further lockdowns or local restrictions.

This Carers Rights Day Carers Northumberland wants to:

• ensure carers are aware of their rights
• let carers know where to get help and support
• raise awareness of the needs of carers.

Debra Blakey, CEO for Carers Northumberland says “It’s as important as ever that carers are aware of their rights.  Having a caring responsibility shouldn’t mean that you no longer have choices.  Carers have rights in the workplace, as well as having the right to decide what level of care they are comfortable providing without external support.  Throughout the pandemic carers and the person they care for were often unable to access some of their usual services, and some are still unavailable.  Carers need to be fully supported if they are they are to continue caring effectively.  We want carers to know they are being listened to and that they have rights which are being respected and addressed appropriately. We are always here to champion carers when they need us, but carers need to know what their rights are so they can feel confident in their caring role.”

 

Join Carers Northumberland and a variety of other service providers at a free Carers Rights Day 2021 Information Event at: The Community Hub, Cramlington NE23 6YB (next to Concordia Leisure Centre)

10:30am – 12.00pm: Live Know Your Rights Carers Workshop – booking is essential for this part- call 01670 320025 or visit the website.

1.00pm – 4.00pm: Carers Rights Day Information Fair – this is a drop in event so no booking necessary. Support, advice and live demonstrations from organisations including Healthwatch Northumberland, Alzheimers Society, Northumberland Parent Carer Forum, PALS, Citizens Advice, Northumberland Fire Service, Health Trainers, Northumberland County Blind Association, Escape Family Support, Age UK Northumberland and more.

 

Tell us your experiences of using NHS and social care services as a carer