Carers Week 2024

Millions of people across the UK provide unpaid care for a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, or mental health issues, cannot manage without their support. This Carers Week, taking place from 10-16 June 2024, is a crucial opportunity to shine a spotlight on these often invisible yet invaluable caregivers and the immense challenges they face.

The emotional and physical demands of caring often lead to fatigue and burnout as carers struggle to balance their own needs with those of the person they care for. High levels of stress and exhaustion are common, affecting both physical and mental health. A staggering 82% of carers surveyed by Carers UK reported that the impact of caring on their health would be a significant challenge over the coming year.

Caring for a loved one is noble and compassionate, but it often requires significant sacrifices. Many carers must reduce their working hours or leave their jobs, resulting in lost income and financial instability. This makes it harder for them to support themselves and their families, and the gap in employment can hinder their ability to re-enter the workforce later on.

In the context of personal injury and clinical negligence, the role of carers becomes even more critical. When someone suffers a serious injury or is affected by medical negligence, their need for care can increase dramatically. Family members often step in to provide this care, which can be both a physically and emotionally demanding task. This situation underscores the importance of recognising and supporting carers, who play a pivotal role in the recovery and wellbeing of injured individuals.

The Care Act 2014 provides carers with the right to an assessment of their needs. This assessment can result in carers receiving support such as financial assistance, respite care, or practical help to manage their caregiving responsibilities. It is vital that carers are aware of their rights and the support available to them under this legislation. However, as highlighted by Carers Week and the ongoing efforts to address the challenges they face, much more needs to be done to improve the support available to carers.

Carers Week is a UK-wide awareness campaign aiming to increase visibility for carers among decision makers, services, employers, communities, and businesses. Raising awareness about the challenges carers face is essential for driving change. This includes addressing the financial strains, employment barriers, and health impacts that carers experience.

Support for Carers

• Carers UK
• Carers Trust.

Contact our injury solicitors today

If you believe we can assist you when pursuing a Personal Injury or Medical Negligence claim, please get in contact with us on 0330 191 4835 or fill out our online enquiry form.

Our experienced team of lawyers will be able to offer advice and guide you through every step of the claims process and our in-house rehabilitation coordinators can help to support you through your recovery.