Bath MP Wera Hobhouse recently visited local charity The Carers’ Centre, hearing more about the support being offered to unpaid carers in the area.
MP Wera Hobhouse during the visit | Photo © The Carers’ Centre
The Carers’ Centre is an independent charity that provides advice and support to over 5,000 unpaid carers across Bath and North East Somerset.
The charity helps adults and children as young as five years old who have caring responsibilities for their family members and friends.
Looking after someone with a long-term illness or disability comes with many challenges.
The Carers’ Centre provides life-changing services to support the physical and mental wellbeing of unpaid carers, primarily by providing emotional support, financial guidance and free wellbeing activities, as well as a Freephone Support Line.
The MP visited the charity to hear directly from unpaid carers and to find out how she could support the organisation.
The Young Carers Council, a group of young people with caring roles discussed the various challenges young carers face in school and the importance of educational professionals being aware of their carer status.
Charlotte, who is 14 years old and cares for her mum who has a disability, said: “Around 1 in 5 children are young carers, but I think loads don’t even know that they are a young carer and if the schools themselves don’t know, they can’t support them.”
Mrs Hobhouse also attended a dementia carer café during her visit, a space specifically designed for those who care for someone with the syndrome.
It gives carers access to crucial peer support and a chance to decompress, with the comfort of knowing their loved ones are enjoying games, singalongs and wellbeing activities in the next room with an experienced facilitator.
A carer described the importance of the service for carers, saying: “There are many carers out there that don’t know they are a carer. It’s a very lonely experience.
“After my first visit to the dementia carer café, I felt a huge sense of relief. It was a great comfort.”
The visit was a valuable experience for the Bath MP, who recounted her family’s experience of unpaid care.
Mrs Hobhouse said: “My visit to The Carers’ Centre gave me a wonderful opportunity to meet with service users of all ages, from young carers to carers looking after loved ones in the later years of their life and those with dementia.
“My mother cared for my father; my visit to The Carers’ Centre gave me fresh insights into the challenges our local carers face today.
“The Carers’ Centre does incredibly important work. I was very impressed by the compassion and dedication of its staff and volunteers, and I am grateful for all they do for our community.”
CEO of The Carers’ Centre, Jacqui Orchard said: “We are incredibly thankful for Mrs Hobhouse meeting with our community of carers, and to the young and adult carers who have taken the time to share their experiences.
“As Mrs Hobhouse has seen today, caring touches so many lives regardless of age or situation. Yet, recognition and awareness of unpaid carers remains low.
“If you look after a loved one, please know that you are not alone. The Carers’ Centre is here for you, whether you have just started looking after someone or have been providing care over many years.”
