There is no doubt that the measures being implemented by Government pose particular challenges for carers and the people you look after. During the past few weeks, we’ve seen many messages on our Forum, helpline and social media which illustrate the range of concerns you have about the impact of the coronavirus on your lives as carers. We recognise these concerns, and we are doing everything we can at Carers UK to alert the Government and other authorities to the support required by carers across the UK.

On 17 March we issued a joint statement with Carers Trust to highlight carers’ concerns and set out what we believe services should be planning to provide sufficient support for carers. We will also be regularly updating our comprehensive response to the emergency legislation on the coronavirus which is passing through Parliament this week – you can read this here.

We understand that this must be a very worrying time for you, and we have produced guidance which we are regularly updating as new information comes to light. This can be found at carersuk.org/coronavirus. Our guidance also covers what you need to do to be prepared, including contingency planning, staying away from others, protecting someone you care for, if you have care workers or other home help, and information for working carers. We have also produced some tips on maintaining your mental wellbeing during these challenging times. Our further support page is being updated with FAQs from carers too.

If you would like to share your concerns about the coronavirus with other carers and former carers, as well as offering emotional and practical support to others, please visit our online Forum where you’ll find a friendly and welcoming community. 

We will also be asking our fantastic team of volunteers to make calls to some of our older members to check that they are OK. If you would like to receive a call from one of our trained volunteers please send a quick email to membership(at)carersuk.org.

Our mission – to help build a society that respects, values and supports carers – is more important than ever. The immediate challenge is going to be to ensure that the emergency measures address the particular circumstances of all of you who are caring for loved ones. Please be assured that we are doing all that we can to make this happen.  

Please do get in touch with us here at Carers UK if you would like any information, support or guidance. Stay safe in these difficult times.

Best wishes,

Helen Walker

Chief Executive Carers UK