As the UK’s elderly population continues to grow, so does the number of ‘hidden carers’—those quietly caring for their loved ones with little recognition or support. At The Carents Room we’re dedicated to shedding light on these unsung heroes and advocating for the support they deserve.
Carers Week 2024: A Call to Action
With Carers Week upon us, we want to highlight the critical findings from our recent research. Over 60% of carents report negative impacts on their mental health, and more than half say their physical health has suffered due to their caregiving responsibilities. Additionally, almost half of carents find their work life adversely affected by their role.
The Growing Challenge
The UK is home to over 10 million people aged 65 and older, with those aged 85+ set to increase significantly in the next decade. This demographic shift means more people will find themselves balancing caregiving with other life commitments, leading to heightened stress and potential health risks.
Dr. Jackie Gray Speaks Out
Our Founder, Dr. Jackie Gray, shares her concerns: “We need to do more for our largest group of carers, many of whom are stretched thin and receive little to no support. Their efforts significantly ease the burden on the NHS and social care systems, yet they face increasing stress and isolation.”
She emphasises that the problem isn’t the ageing family members but the lack of support available for carents. “Many carents struggle to find the support and information they need, often feeling pushed from pillar to post. This isn’t just about health-related matters; it’s about emotional support and practical solutions for safety concerns when elderly parents live alone.”
Partnering for Better Support
We’re proud to partner with Northern Gas Networks and Cadent to provide much-needed support to carents. Through these partnerships, we access funds to help those in vulnerable situations with energy advice and safety measures.
Eileen Brown, Customer Experience Director at Northern Gas Networks, says, “By partnering with The Carents Room, we’re ‘helping the helpers’ who dedicate their time and energy to care for others. The team’s work is invaluable in supporting families to look after their loved ones.”
Phil Burrows, Head of Customer Vulnerability at Cadent, adds, “Navigating the complexities of health and financial information can be overwhelming for carers. Our collaboration aims to promote practical safety awareness, offering solutions like free locking cooker valves and EasyAssist gas emergency control valves to ensure quick action in emergencies.”
About The Carents Room
Founded in 2020, The Carents Room is an online platform created to support carers looking after older parents. We offer a comprehensive ‘one-stop shop’ for information, support, and community engagement, helping carers connect with others and find the resources they need.
For more information, browse the rest of our content here at carents.co.uk and join us in supporting the hidden heroes of the UK’s healthcare system.
