Bedfordshire charity launches campaign to recognise and support carers
This week is Carers Week, and ‘Carers in Bedfordshire’ are running the ‘We See You’ campaign
‘Carers in Bedfordshire’ wants to show the 40,000 unpaid carers living in the community that they can offer support.
Chris Stelling, CEO of Carers in Bedfordshire, said: “We call carers a ‘hidden army’ because many of them aren’t really recognised in their role. But, without them doing what they do, the NHS and the community at large would have a huge burden to shoulder.”
Chris added that it is estimated that carers contribute to effect £162 billion, more than the NHS.
He said: “So, if you put it into that context, if they were to suddenly stop what they were doing, we would have to create another NHS to do that role.”
“So, the ‘We See You’ campaign is our way of shining a spotlight on them and telling carers that we see you, we know you're there, we recognise you, and we're here to support you and advocate on your behalf.”
The ‘We See You’ campaign also aims to tell those who may not even identify as carers yet, that they are indeed caring, and that they are not alone.
Chris said: “Most often people don’t see themselves as carers because they are just looking after their loved ones.
“But what you’re doing is absolutely extraordinary; you are putting yourself under immense pressure and strain by taking on that role. And so, if that sounds like you, then there's support out there.”
‘Carers in Bedfordshire’ provides one-to-one support, organises groups for peer support, and have a new Online Support Hub with information for carers to access.