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? 

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.

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: 

New Offers & Local Resources. Did you know about :  

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.

Reflecting on a Decade of Achievements

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

• Supporting More Carers: We’ve registered and supported over 41,746 unpaid Carers, providing essential resources and services that cater to their unique needs.
• Investing in Communities: Over the past decade, we’ve channelled £16.5 million into the not-for-profit sector, helping to ensure Carers have access to impactful, locally rooted support.
• Championing Carer Friendly Communities: Through our efforts, over 2,606 businesses have taken steps to become Carer Friendly, whether by offering discounts, undergoing Carer awareness training, or creating supportive workplaces.
• Making a Tangible Impact: Our support has made a real difference. After engaging with Forward Carers, 7 in 10 Carers report feeling more positive about their caring role and experiencing improved physical and mental health.
• Carers Voice Programme: Engaging nearly 1,000 Carers annually, this initiative ensures that Carer feedback informs and shapes our services. Our dedicated Carer Ambassadors play a vital role in amplifying the voices of Carers and ensuring our services remain effective.

Looking Ahead: Building on a Strong Foundation

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. 

• Warm Home Discount Scheme: A one-off payment of £150 to help with energy bills Warm Home Discount Scheme: Overview – GOV.UK

• Cold Weather Payments: Payments made during periods of very cold weather.Cold Weather Payment: Overview – GOV.UK

• Winter Fuel Payments: Annual payments to help with heating costs. Winter Fuel Payment: Overview – GOV.UK

• Household Support Fund: Local councils can provide support for essential costs Get help with the cost of living from your local council – GOV.UK

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 :

• Cruse Bereavement Care: Offers support for children, young people, and adults when someone dies. They provide face-to-face, telephone, email, and website support Home – Cruse Bereavement Support

• Samaritans: Provides confidential support for anyone in distress If you’re having a difficult time | Samaritans

• Help for Heroes: Supporting Veterans and their families  Home Page – Help For Heroes

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.

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:

• Employment – from job applications to workplace practices
• Education – in schools, colleges, or universities
• Housing – whether you’re buying or renting
• Goods and Services – including shops, restaurants, and public services
• Public Authorities – including councils, the NHS, and local authority schools

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:

• Age
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage or civil partnership
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race
• Religion or belief
• Sex
• Sexual orientation

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:

• Direct Discrimination: Occurs when someone is treated less favourably due to a protected characteristic, such as disability. For example, being denied a job because of your caring responsibilities could be considered direct discrimination.
• Indirect Discrimination: Refers to rules or policies that appear neutral but disadvantage people with certain protected characteristics. For instance, if a workplace policy inadvertently disadvantages Carers, it may be indirect discrimination.
• Discrimination by Association: Occurs when you’re treated unfairly because of your association with a person who has a protected characteristic. For example, if your employer treats you unfairly due to your role as a Carer for a disabled family member, it’s known as discrimination by association.
• Harassment: Includes unwanted behaviour linked to a protected characteristic that creates an intimidating, hostile, or humiliating environment. Carers may experience harassment due to their association with someone who has a protected characteristic, like disability.
  

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:

• Record the Incident: Document what happened, where, when, and any witnesses.
• Seek Advice: Organisations like Citizens Advice, Carers UK, and disability rights groups can provide guidance.
• Raise the Issue: If possible, address the matter informally with the individual or organisation involved. Open communication can often resolve issues.
• Consider Legal Action: For serious cases, consider seeking legal advice to explore formal action options.
  

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.

November hosts the annual Carers Rights Day and this year it is on Thursday 21^st November 2024. Over that week, there will be local and national events you can attend to learn more about your entitlement to help, advice and support. Keep your eye out for our November Newsletter to see the events Forward Carers, local councils and our partner organisations will be providing. Want to know more about this? Learn about why we have this annual awareness day and the themes for this year? 

History and Importance

Carers Rights Day is an annual event in the UK that raises awareness about the rights of unpaid Carers and ensures you receive the support you deserve. With over 5.7 million unpaid Carers in the UK, many people don’t even realise they are Carers, and may be unaware of their legal rights and entitlements. This day is a vital opportunity to highlight the challenges you face and to remind everyone of the invaluable role Carers play in our communities.

Why It Matters

Understanding and asserting your rights can make a world of difference. It empowers unpaid Carers to seek the support and benefits available to you. This year, Carers Rights Day falls on 21st November 2024, with the theme “Recognising Your Rights.” The aim is to help Carers identify your rights and access support, whether that’s in the workplace, healthcare, or through social services.

Key Themes for 2024

This year’s focus is on three main areas:

• Awareness: Educating Carers about your rights, such as Carer’s Leave, the right to request flexible working, and protection from discrimination.
• Support: Encouraging Carers to access available resources, like Carer’s Assessments and support during hospital discharges.
• Advocacy: Promoting the need for better recognition and support for Carers within the community and workplace.
  

Upcoming Event: Recognising Your Rights as an Unpaid Carer – Carers Rights Day 2024

Mark your calendar for Carers Rights Day on 18th November at 7pm-8:30pm! This online event, themed Recognising Your Rights, is a crucial opportunity for you as an Unpaid Carer to learn about your rights and available support.

Join expert speakers as we discuss Carer’s Leave, flexible working, Carer assessments, and more—all designed to empower you in your role. From understanding GP support to navigating hospital discharges, this session will guide you through the essentials.

Wiltshire Parent Carer Council (WPCC) are inviting Wiltshire parent Carers of children/ young people aged 0-25 years with special educational needs and/ or disabilities to share their views on Wiltshire’s Short Breaks Scheme.

Wiltshire’s current Short Breaks Scheme is commissioned until 2026. To begin to inform future decisions about the scheme, WPCC and Wiltshire Council want to have conversations with as many parent Carers as possible about this scheme.  Your child/ young person does not need to have accessed the scheme in the past or be currently eligible for the scheme for you to join in these conversations.

This is an important opportunity to help shape what a future short breaks scheme might look like in Wiltshire and we are encouraging as many parent Carers as possible to participate and share their views about social and leisure opportunities for their children/ young people.  Young people are invited to join sessions alongside their parent Carers if they would like to. 

Free tea, coffee and cake will be provided and parent Carers will be able to claim out of pocket mileage, car parking and childcare expenses incurred by attending sessions. Everyone who attends a session will be entered into a draw with the chance to win one of three £50 vouchers!

Sessions take place in September through to early October and will be held in Calne, Salisbury, Devizes and online.

Further information including details of venues can be found on the booking form. Please also click to see the flyer.

Today marks the start of Carers Week 2024 and the publication of Carers UK’s Carers Week report: No Choice But To Care.

The report shows that 10 million adults – 62% of current and former unpaid Carers – had no choice in taking on their caring role due to a lack of alternative care options, according to analysis of YouGov polling data.

This research revealed that the impact of caring has been more negative than positive for all areas unpaid Carers were asked about, particularly for their

• physical health (53%)
• mental health (63%)
• employment (48%)
• and finances and savings (47%).

The negative impacts as a result of caring were felt most strongly by those who had no choice but to take on an unpaid caring role as well as women and those aged 45-54.

Gender Differences
The report also found that women were more likely than men to say unpaid caring had a ‘very’ negative impact on mental health (27% compared with 19%) and on their job and ability to work (22% compared with 16%).

A higher proportion of women said unpaid caring had a ‘very’ or ‘slightly’ negative impact on their relationships compared with men (42% compared with 30%) and on their physical health compared to men (59% compared with 42%).

Age Differences
Those aged 45 to 54 were most likely to have no choice when taking on an unpaid caring role (70%) and were most likely to say that unpaid caring has had a ‘very’ or ‘slightly’ negative impact on their finances and savings (56%), job and ability to work (64%) and pensions (30%), compared to other age groups.**

Dorothy Cook is an unpaid Carer from Bristol. She stopped working over a decade ago to care for her husband Melvin, who has a rare brain disease. Dorothy said:

“If I had been asked 15 years ago where I saw my life in 2024, I would never have dreamed it would be as a full-time carer. I had started my own business and it was thriving. I worked long hours and it wasn’t always easy. But I will honestly say that being a full-time unpaid carer has been the toughest and most challenging role of all.

“I was forced into giving up my dream life, job, friends, relationships and my physical and mental health suffered. I am financially poorer. I do it because of my love for someone who has found themselves dependent on me. I also have little choice about caring because the system is unable to provide the care my husband needs. It leaves me without enough breaks and the essential support I also need for my own health. I’m often caring 24 hours a day, 7 days a week which is exhausting.”

Read the full report.

National Carers Strategy is needed in England and Wales
The report recommends the establishment of a National Carers Strategy, review and reform of social security benefits for Carers and better workplace protections and workplace support for unpaid carers. To ensure Carers’ health and wellbeing is better supported, the report recommends a new duty on the NHS to have regard to unpaid Carers as well as further investment in social care and Carers’ breaks. The report also makes recommendations aimed at employers, public bodies and specific recommendations for the UK nations.

In this General Election year, Carers UK is campaigning for better recognition and commitment for unpaid Carers from all political parties.

An additional YouGov Political Omnibus poll of over 4,200 members of the public showed widespread backing for more support to be given to unpaid Carers. 73% said unpaid Carers should receive more support from the next Government, particularly financial support and investment in social care.

Sign Carers UK’s Open Letter to the Prime Minister
We encourage you to raise your voice in support of Carers in the run up to the General Election on 4 July. Please sign Carers UK’s open letter to the future Prime Minister. You can also write to the local candidates standing in your constituency.

Carers Week is a time to recognise and celebrate the incredible contributions of unpaid carers in our community. From saving the economy millions to providing essential care for loved ones, Carers play a vital role. This year’s theme, “Putting Carers on the Map,” aims to raise awareness about the challenges they face and ensure better support for their needs.

Here’s how you can get involved online if you are unable to attend in-person events.

Online Carers Coffee Catch-ups
Connect, share and find support with other Carers by joining a Carers Coffee Catch-up with our partner Kissing it Better on Mondays and Fridays (10.30am – 11.30am) or join an evening session on Thursdays (5.00pm – 6.00pm).
Register to join here.

Or you can email mail@kibmail.co.uk or call 07831 136152.

Online Discovery Session
If you juggle paid work alongside your unpaid caring role, find out about the NEW Carer’s Leave Act at this free online event.

• Date: Tuesday, 11th June
• Time: 7:00 – 8:00 PM
• Cost: Free (Online event)
• Details: Explore the implications of the Carers Leave Act and how it affects you as an unpaid working Carer. Register here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/what-does-the-carers-leave-act-mean-for-you-as-an-unpaid-working-carer-tickets-886308782427

The new Carer Friendly Wiltshire online support service, provided by Forward Carers CIC, is dedicated to anyone living in Wiltshire who is supporting a friend or family member on a regular basis, regardless of whether or not they are officially recognised as a Carer. 

Cllr Jane Davies, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care said:  

“We want our unpaid Carers to feel supported to be able to enjoy life and achieve their goals and ambitions while they are caring. We are ensuring the face-to-face support continues but also there will be online help 24/7 so unpaid Carers know they are not alone and they have a network to reach out to.” 

Carers in Wiltshire will continue to receive a Carer Card that will now be issued by Forward Carers. The Carer ID Card includes a passport sized photo of the Carer, the council’s emergency contact details and their own emergency contact. A physical card and a digital download for smartphones are available free of charge to Carers who live in the county. 

Simon Fenton, Chief Executive of Forward Carers said: 

“We are thrilled to provide online support to unpaid Carers in Wiltshire. Carers sometimes care for more than one person and often juggle lots of tasks including work. Young Carers also multitask between being a Carer and being at school or some other form of education, leaving little time for themselves or to physically reach out for support.

As all of our support is online, Carers can get support at a time that is convenient for them and have the option of joining an online community of Carers to get valuable peer to peer support. Rather than spending time searching for answers, our virtual resources (including toolkits and guides) provide information and advice about caring at the click of a button. We hope our support will make a difference and improve the lives of all Carers living in Wiltshire.”