In this month’s newsletter we want to keep you informed, supported, and connected. This month, we’re reflecting on the first six months of the Carer’s Leave Act, highlighting positive changes in workplace support for Carers. We’re also sharing practical tips for talking to your employer about your caring role, plus a round-up of the latest exclusive discounts available to Carers nationwide.


Do you know anyone that is providing Care? Are they aware of the help that could be available to them in Wiltshire?  Are you a Carer or know someone who might be? – Wiltshire Carers 

Carer Friendly Businesses  

We have been busy contacting all the museums across Wiltshire to introduce ourselves and the program. In addition, we have reached out to all out-community partners to find businesses that would like to join us!  

Are you a Carer and know a business you would recommend? Here is how you and others in the community can help spread the word  Show Your Support for unpaid Carers: Join the Carer Friendly Communities Programme in Wiltshire – Wiltshire Carers 

Read on for all the details, and as always, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

THE CARER’S LEAVE ACT – 6 MONTHS ON  

In April 2024, the Carer’s Leave Act was introduced, granting employees the right to take up to five days of unpaid leave annually to help juggling working and care.  We wrote about this for you: (Carer’s Leave Act Comes into Force on 6 April 2024 )  

A recent survey by Employers for Carers (EfC) has highlighted several positive developments in its first six months: 

  1. Introduction of Paid Carer’s Leave: 44% of surveyed organisations now offer between one to ten days of paid Carer’s Leave, exceeding the statutory requirement of unpaid leave. Notably, 27% of these employers introduced paid leave for the first time following the Act’s enactment.  
  2. Establishment of Dedicated Carer’s Leave Policies: Over half (51%) of the organisations have implemented specific policies for Carer’s Leave, a significant increase from 23% prior to the Act. This change enhances transparency and accessibility for Carers within the workplace.  
  3. Growth in Workplace Carer Networks: Since the Act’s introduction, 23% of organisations have observed an increase in employees joining workplace Carer networks, indicating heightened awareness and support for Carers among staff.  

These developments demonstrate a growing recognition of the importance of supporting Carers in the workplace. You can read the full report here:  

Click here to read the full report by carers UK.

TIPS FOR A CONVERSATION WITH YOUR EMPLOYER

Letting your employer know that you have care responsibilities is a concern for some carers, but it’s an important step toward getting the support you need. Here are some tips to help you feel more confident and comfortable when having the conversation.  Read them here. 

Click here to read our blog with tips

NATIONAL CARERS: SAVINGS ACROSS THE UK 

For all our Carers across the UK, we’re adding new offers for you each month. Here are some of the latest discounts available nationwide: 

Ninja-Discounts – 9% Carers Discount on Airfryers and Cookware. (Sale and Full Price).Discounts – Forward Carers 

Ugg-10% Carers Discount on Boots, Slippers and Slides. (Full Price).Discounts – Forward Carers 

Travel Lodge-5% Carers Discount on UK Hotels.Discounts – Forward Carers 

Bosch-10% carers Discount on All Home Appliances.Discounts – Forward Carers 

Just Travel Cover-15% Carers Discount on full price quoted.Discounts – Forward Carers 

(The above are affiliated offers through Discount For Carers).

Letting your employer know that you have care responsibilities is a concern for some carers, but it’s an important step toward getting the support you need. Here are some tips to help you feel more confident and comfortable when having the conversation. 

TAKE TIME TO PREPARE 

  • Think It Through: Spend a little time writing down your care responsibilities and how they affect and do not affect your work. This can help you explain your situation clearly without forgetting important points. 
  • Know Your Rights: Learning about workplace policies and your rights as a Carer can make you feel more prepared. Our “Carers Rights”, and “Carers Rights At Work” discovery sessions will support you in this.  

CHOOSE THE RIGHT PERSON AND TIME 

  • the person to speak to. They can ensure your personnel file is updated to reflect this conversation and any outcomes from it.  
  • If for any reason you do not feel comfortable talking to them, ask yourself who is the best member of staff who could support you in a meeting with them? Can they attend the event with you, to offer support?  
  • You might be surprised to find that there is a workplace Carers Champion. They would be able to offer advice and signposting to resources and polices.  
  • Find a Calm Moment: Look for a quiet time to talk, such as a one-to-one meeting or another private opportunity. A relaxed environment can make it easier to open-up and share your feelings. 

WHAT TO SAY AND DO

1. Be Open and Honest: 

  1. Start by gently sharing your situation. You could say something like: 

“I’d like to talk about something important in my personal life. I’m a Carer and I wanted to explore how we can work together and possibly make a few adjustments to support me in my work. I really value my job and my team, so this is an important conversation for me”  

Remember you are not required to give any personal details about the person you care for, but if you are happy to do so, some basic understanding of this relationship may help people see your situation more clearly.  

  1. This sets the tone for a positive, understanding conversation. 

2. Work Together on Solutions: 

  1. Think about adjustments that might help, like flexible hours, remote working, or time off for appointments. 
  2. Show you’re committed to your job by suggesting ideas that work for both you and your employer. 

3. Ask for Support: 

  1. Let your manager know what kind of support would make a difference for you. 
  2. This could be understanding your need for flexibility, or helping you access resources that can support Carers. 

IT’S OK TO HAVE CONCERNS

It’s normal to feel worried about how your employer might react. 

  • Will They Understand? You might worry about how they’ll see your commitment to work. Reassure them that you want to manage your responsibilities and stay dedicated. 
  • What About My Career? It’s natural to feel uncertain about how this could affect opportunities, but starting the conversation shows you’re proactive and thoughtful. This could go a long way towards those opportunities.  
  • Feeling Nervous? It is only human, opening up about personal challenges can feel tough, but it’s an important step in getting the understanding and support you deserve. 

SHARE HELPFUL RESOURCES

 It might be a new consideration for your employer:  

  • Signposting them to us at Forward Carers: Mention we are a trusted organisation that helps Carers understand their rights and offers advice for workplace support. 
  • Carers UK: You can also give them links to key government documents and information about workplace rights, published by Carers Uk.  
  • Local Services: Highlight resources like the Birmingham and Walsall Carers Hubs, or the local Carers service in your area, which provide practical support and advice for Carers in your area. 

A GENTLE REMINDER 

Having this conversation is about creating a partnership with your employer. Many workplaces are becoming more aware of the challenges Carers face and are keen to support their employees. 

Remember, you’re doing an incredible job balancing work and caring responsibilities, and there is help available if you need it. 

Do you (or someone you know) look after a friend, neighbour, or family member who couldn’t manage alone because of age, frailty, illness, a mental health condition, or addiction? 

If you said yes, you might not realise it, but you are classed as a Carer. Being a Carer doesn’t define who you are, but it does mean you have important legal rights. These could include financial support, practical help, assistive technology, and workplace rights.

Carer Friendly Wiltshire

Forward Carers, commissioned by Wiltshire Council and the Integrated Care Board (ICB), provides the Carer Friendly Wiltshire website. It’s full of free resources and support to help you in your caring role. You’ll find:

Visit www.carerfriendlywiltshire.org.uk to get started. 

Wiltshire Carers ID Card

This free photo ID card is designed by Carers, for Carers. It helps show you’re a verified Carer and can be used: 

The card also includes In Case of Emergency (ICE) contact service provided by Wiltshire Council’s 24-hour Contact Team, emergency planning support and gives access to exclusive offers and discounts. 

Once registered, Wiltshire Council will call you to discuss your emergency planning needs. Already have the card? Call 0300 456 0100. to set up your plan. 

How to Apply 

Getting your card is quick and easy: 

Extra Help with Technology 

Need digital support? Wiltshire libraries provide free computer access, Wi-Fi, and one-to-one appointments. Accessing computers – Wiltshire Council 

Start making the most of your rights and support today! 

Did you know there are over 47,000 unpaid Carers in Wiltshire? These dedicated individuals balance their time caring for loved ones, often alongside work and other responsibilities. As a business in Wiltshire, it is likely you’re already offering something wonderful to your community—can we help you share this and celebrate your contribution?    

Attract Carers, Their Friends, and Their Families

 Providing a discount or exclusive offer to Carer ID Card holders is a simple way to stand out. Not only will you attract Carers, but their friends and family will see your business as trusted and supportive. This recognition builds loyalty, making them more likely to spend money with you and recommend you to others in their community. 

Exclusive Benefits for Your Business 

We are an official partner of Wiltshire Council, commissioned to deliver the Carer Friendly Scheme.  

Go Further with the Carer Friendly Employer Pledge 

Want to lead the way? Make a Carer Friendly Employer Pledge and we will show you how this can attract top talent, improve sick leave, and show your workforce that you’re a great employer to work for!  

Benefits include: 

Who are we?  

Forward Carers is award-winning not-for-profit Community Interest Company and have been empowering unpaid Carers across England to live fulfilling lives since 2014. Our mission is to create places where everyone plays a role in supporting Carers and Carers feel understood and valued by the whole community.

Why Support Carers?

Every step you take to support Carers strengthens your reputation as a community-focused business. Carers often rely on local businesses for respite and support, and your involvement can make a lasting difference. No matter how small or big your business.  

Get Started Today

Let’s work together to celebrate your contribution and help you shine as a trusted, Carer-friendly business. Help us build a stronger, more inclusive Wiltshire! 

At Forward Carers, we understand the challenges Carers face and work closely with GP Carers Participation Teams to ensure Carers receive the support they deserve. 

Last October, we had the pleasure of attending the GP Carers Leads Networking Day Event at The Vespasian, Dorchester. The event was hosted and organised by Lizzie Eden and Sarah Sims, Carers Engagement Facilitators for the GP Practices Participation Team, Dorset. 

 It brought together a dedicated group of Carers Leads from various GP Practices. It was lovely to see so many professionals whose aim was to make a positive difference for unpaid Carers. 

We were very fortunate to hear presentations from professionals on the work that they are doing for Carers and a heartwarming, account from Steve Duckett, the Chair of the PDCSG. He kindly gave us an insight into his own Caring journey, which was very personal, thought provoking, and sensitive. 

Our role at the event was to share information about the benefits of the Carers ID Card, Wellbeing Directory and Website. Enabling the attendees to signpost the information to Carers.  

We were also very proud to promote our Carer Friendly Award Winners, celebrating GP practices that go above and beyond in their support for Carers. We had a presentation board of the Carers Leads and their GP Practices who have achieved our Carer Friendly Status, celebrating all their achievements.

These practices are:  

Westbourne Medical Centre, Two Harbours Healthcare Ltd-Weymouth and Portland PCN, Central Bournemouth PCN, The Adam Practice, Gillingham Medical Practice, Mid-Dorset PCN, Jurassic Coast PCN, Poole North PCN, The Blackmore Vale Partnership. 

If you are a Surgery and would like to make a Carer Friendly nomination, then please contact Lizzie lizzie.eden@nhs.net. If you are a Carer and would like to nominate a Surgery as being Carer Friendly, then please contact us at carerfriendly@forwardcarers.org.uk. 

Happy New Year!  

In this month’s newsletter we want to share our own Celebratory News and Introduce Accessible Screenings UK.   

Did you know there are a number of different types of screenings in UK cinemas, that are adapted for disabled people to ensure they can enjoy the big screen experience? 

Click to read our blog about accessible cinema screenings

In December Forward Carers Celebrated our 10 year Anniversary! A decade of empowering unpaid Carers and championing Carer Friendly Communities.

Since our establishment in 2014, our mission has been clear – to ensure that Carers are understood, valued, and supported in every aspect of their lives. We hope that whatever way Forward Carers has had input into your life and caring journey that it has been in a positive way.

Click to read our blog and see how we celebrated 10 year of forward carers!

National Carers: Savings Across the UK

For all our Carers across the UK, we’re adding new offers for you each month. Here are some of the latest discounts available nationwide: 

Michael Kors– 10% Discount. Affiliated Offer through Discount For Carers.

The Entertainer– 5% Discount valid on full price and sale price items. Affiliated offer through Discount For Carers.

Debenhams- 10% off almost everything for Carers. On both sale & full price. Exclusions apply. An affiliated offer through Discount For Carers. 

Here is a sample of the latest exclusive offers available to you this month: 

The Project Climbing Centre: Day pass £10.50 normally £12.50 
5 Climb passes £42.00 normally £50.00.

Anureflex: 20% discount on the listed price for a reflexology session for carers. See Terms and Conditions for travel. 

Jailhouse Cafe: Filter Tea or Coffee and a cake for £3.00 

BMV Fitness and Health: Free Trial Workout. 

Help and Kindness: Signposting for Carers. 

New Offers & Local Resources. Did you know about :  

On Friday 17 January, a local Solicitor, Samantha, from Forrester Sylvester Mackett Solicitors will be attending the Cancer Support Café. 

Samantha will be giving a short overview of considerations around Wills and Powers of Attorney. This free session, starting at 11:30 for one hour, is open to anyone affected by cancer, including family and friends in need of guidance and support prior to a death or following the loss of a loved one.

See the poster…

Support for bereaved Young People 

Do you have a bereaved young person in your family who needs extra support? Wiltshire Nest are now accepting referrals for their 2025 bereavement support programmes. These programmes are free to attend.  

If you are looking after a bereaved young person who would benefit from some support with their grief you can make a referral to : Wiltshire NEST bereavement programme (based in Trowbridge) is for young people in school years 6-11 (next programme starts Feb 2025). 

Our leaflet can be found here Wilts NEST leaflet email version.pdf 

Don’t forget…

Have any ideas of businesses we can approach or know someone who would like to provide an offer/ discount to Carers? Maybe a cafe or restaurant that is Carer Friendly?  

By registering an offer, they will become a member of the Carer Friendly Community for FREE, joining national businesses and providers who benefit from being Carer Friendly. Free business promotion pack too!  Register here: Register a discount.

Drop us an email and we will contact them to see if they’d like to join our Carer Friendly community. carerfriendly@forwardcarers.org.uk

Stay Updated and In Touch 

We’re always adding new ways to support you, so make sure to keep your ID Card handy and check the Directory for the latest discounts.  

Thank you for all that you do. Together, we’re building #CarerFriendlyCommunities.

Did you know there are a number of different types of screenings in UK cinemas, that are adapted for disabled people to ensure they can enjoy the big screen experience? In this article we provide information on the different types of screenings available and how essential Carers can access free entry.

Types of Accessible Screenings 

Many cinemas offer accessible screenings, but there may be reasons why some cannot do so, immediately upon a film’s release.  Accessible Screenings UK | Inclusive Cinema Experiences is a valuable resource that provides a directory of venues showing Autism Friendly, Dementia Friendly, Audio Described and Subtitled/Open Caption screenings.

An increasing number of films – and many major releases – are supplied to cinemas with ‘access tracks,’ specifically subtitles (on-screen captions) and audio description. However, this is not true for all films, and even when these tracks are available, they may not be supplied until a week or two after the initial release. 

While it may seem that cinemas should be able to simply ‘switch on’ the subtitles or audio description for any film on demand, that is unfortunately not the case. The cinema needs to have the relevant version of the film (with access tracks) and to have had time to check to ensure that the access tracks are working properly. 

Free Entry for Essential Carers

One fantastic benefit is that many cinemas offer free entry for essential Carers. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the cinema experience without additional financial burden. To access this benefit, you can apply for a CEA Card (Cinema Exhibitors’ Association Card), which is widely accepted across UK cinemas. Register here: Home – CEA Card 

For more information about accessible screenings and to check availability at your local cinema, visit Accessible Screenings UK | Inclusive Cinema Experiences  

Enjoy your next trip to the cinema! 🎬🍿 

This year, Forward Carers proudly celebrates a remarkable milestone: a decade of empowering unpaid Carers and championing Carer Friendly Communities. Since our establishment in 2014, our mission has been clear – to ensure that Carers are understood, valued, and supported in every aspect of their lives. We hope that whatever way Forward Carers has had input into your life and caring journey that it has been in a positive way.

A Decade of Dedication

Over the past ten years, Forward Carers has grown into an award-winning, not-for-profit social enterprise and Community Interest Company. By working alongside a network of trusted partners, we’ve extended our reach to provide tailored support to Carers of all ages across Walsall, Wiltshire, Dorset, Birmingham, and Dudley. Our journey has been defined by collaboration, innovation, and commitment to improving the lives of Carers.

Marking the Moment: Our 10-Year Anniversary Celebration

On 7th December, we marked this significant milestone with a celebratory event at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham. This special evening was a time for reflection and gratitude as we honoured the people and partnerships that have shaped our journey.

Simon Fenton, CEO of Forward Carers, captured the essence of our mission during the celebration:

“Building the Forward Carers team and partnership over the past ten years has meant everything to me. I’m proud of our focus on creating Carer Friendly Communities, which we deliver by having clear organisation-wide values around partnership, putting Carers at the centre, delivering on impact, and ensuring that everything we do also provides social value to the communities we serve.”

Reflecting on a Decade of Achievements

As we celebrate this milestone, we take pride in the progress we’ve made:

Looking Ahead: Building on a Strong Foundation

As we enter our next chapter, we’re more committed than ever to driving positive change. Our focus on innovation and digital solutions will allow us to reach even more Carers, while our partnership-driven approach remains central to our work.

Dave Rogers, CEO of Midland Mencap and Chair of the Board at Forward Carers, reflected on our journey: “Caring is a journey – sometimes overwhelming, often deeply rewarding, and always constant. Forward Carers has been on this journey for a decade, and we’re excited to continue building Carer Friendly Communities for years to come.”

Thank You!

Our success over the past ten years would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our partners, volunteers, and, most importantly, Carers themselves. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain inspired by the resilience and dedication of unpaid Carers and are determined to ensure they receive the recognition and support they deserve.

Winter is a season of joy and celebration for many, with festivities like Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year’s Eve bringing families and friends together. However, for many unpaid carers, this period can be particularly challenging. The combination of financial pressures, emotional strain, and the demands of caring can make it difficult to fully participate in the season’s cheer.

Financial Pressures

Winter often brings increased expenses, from higher heating bills to the costs associated with holiday celebrations. For unpaid carers, who may already be struggling financially, these additional costs can be overwhelming. Reseach shows many carers cover the costs of care out of their own pockets, which can average around £7,200 annually – you can read more about this and other updates published by Carers UK last month here : Carers Rights Day report: Valuing Carers

There are several forms of financial support available, that can help, check if your eligible. 

Emotional Strain and Bereavement

The festive season can also be a poignant reminder of loved ones who have passed away. Celebrating without someone you cared for can bring up feelings of grief and loneliness. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and seek support when needed. Bereavement milestones, such as the first holiday season without a loved one, can be particularly tough.

For bereavement support, you may find these sites helpful :

Celebrating with Someone Who is I’ll or in Hospital

For Carers looking after someone who is ill or in hospital, the festive season can be a time of mixed emotions. While others are celebrating, Carers may be dealing with the realities of illness and hospital visits. If possible, find ways for yourself and the person you’re caring for to take part in these celebrations, even if it’s in a small way. Great Ormond Street hospital has some suggestions: Top tips for your stay at hospital this festive season | Great Ormond Street Hospital

Staying Connected

Isolation can be a significant issue, especially during the winter months. Staying connected with others who understand your situation can provide much-needed support. Forward Carers offers online “Kissing it Better” Zoom groups, which are free social sessions for Carers. These sessions provide an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and find support from fellow Carers. They are held every Monday and Friday at 10:30 am and Thursday at 5pm.

Click here to view & book KiB sessions

Whether you are celebrating or managing a difficult moment, we wish you a safe and nurturing winter break with those you care about and care for.

Protection Against Discrimination and Harassment

If you’re an unpaid Carer for an elderly or disabled person, it’s essential to know that the law recognises and protects your rights. Caring for someone with specific needs can sometimes mean facing unfair treatment or barriers in various aspects of life. Fortunately, the Equality Act 2010 offers essential protections for Carers across England, Wales, and Scotland, with similar protections under legislation in Northern Ireland. This article explains how the law shields you against discrimination and harassment, applies to your caring role, and what to do if you experience unfair treatment.

1. How Does the Law Protect Carers Against Discrimination?

Under the Equality Act 2010, unpaid Carers have legal protections against discrimination and harassment, as the law considers you to be ‘associated’ with a person who has a protected characteristic, such as age or disability. This safeguard means you cannot be treated unfairly due to your connection with the person you care for.

In Northern Ireland, Carers have similar protections under the Human Rights Act and Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act, which requires public bodies to promote equality for Carers—an important step toward building more inclusive, Carer Friendly Communities.

2. Where Could Unfair Treatment Happen?

Unfair treatment can happen in many areas, and the Equality Act protects against discrimination in:

If discrimination occurs in any of these areas, understanding your rights is essential, as the Equality Act may provide protection against unfair treatment.

3. Protected Characteristics Under the Equality Act

The Equality Act safeguards individuals from discrimination based on specific characteristics, called “protected characteristics,” which include:

As a Carer, you may face discrimination by association if you experience unfair treatment due to your connection with someone who has one or more of these characteristics. This is especially relevant for Carers of individuals with disabilities, as the law specifically protects against discrimination in this context.

4. Types of Discrimination

The Equality Act outlines several forms of discrimination Carers may encounter:

5. Taking Action if You Experience Discrimination

If you believe you or the person you care for has been treated unfairly due to a protected characteristic, take these steps:

Your Rights Matter

Discrimination and harassment can add significant challenges to an already demanding Carer role. By understanding your rights, you can better protect yourself and advocate for fair treatment. Remember, you deserve to live and work in an environment that respects your invaluable contribution. If you need support, reach out to organisations that understand Carer rights and can offer assistance.