As we mark Carers Week 2025, Forward Carers is celebrating the incredible unpaid Carers who support loved ones every day – and the communities stepping up to support them in return. 

This year’s Carers Week theme, “Putting Carers on the Map,” is a powerful reminder of how vital it is to recognise and support those who care – and that starts with our local communities. Carers are everywhere: they are our neighbours, our colleagues, our friends and our family members. Yet many go unrecognised and unsupported, simply because the people and places around them aren’t aware of the role they play. 

At Forward Carers, we believe that every Carer deserves to be seen, valued and supported – not just by services, but by the community around them. That’s why our Carer Friendly Communities work is so vital. 

🌍 What is a Carer Friendly Community? 

A Carer Friendly Community is one where unpaid Carers are recognised, respected and supported in everyday life – whether they’re visiting a GP, attending school, going to work, or popping into a local shop. 

Through our Carer Friendly Communities programme, Forward Carers works with: 

• Businesses and employers to become Carer Friendly Employers 

• Health and care professionals to spot and support Carers early 

• Community groups and local services to improve accessibility and understanding 

• Schools and colleges to support young and young adult Carers 

By building awareness and making small, meaningful changes, we help local organisations create inclusive environments where Carers feel seen and supported – without having to ask. 

🏆 Recognising Carer Friendly Champions 

Part of our mission is to celebrate and showcase the organisations that are making a real difference to Carers. From GP surgeries with dedicated Carer leads, to high street businesses offering flexible appointments or quiet spaces, we’ve seen incredible examples of inclusive practice in action. 

Our Carer Friendly ID Card Scheme and Carer Aware Training also help professionals to understand what it means to be Carer aware – and how they can help Carers access the right support at the right time. 

If your organisation would like to become more Carer Friendly, we’d love to support you. It’s free, flexible, and could make all the difference to someone who is caring in silence. 

💙 Carers Week: Let’s Put Carers on the Map – Together 

This Carers Week, we’re not just celebrating Carers – we’re calling on everyone in the community to take action. 

Whether you’re a school, shop, faith group, local employer or health provider, you can help create a more inclusive, compassionate community by becoming Carer Friendly. 

Together, we can ensure that Carers feel supported in every space they walk into – not just during Carers Week, but every week of the year. 

🔗 Find out more and get involved in our Carer Friendly Communities initiative at www.forwardcarers.org.uk  

Dementia Action Week, taking place from Monday 20 May to Sunday 26 May 2025, is a national initiative led by the Alzheimer’s Society and supported by organisations, communities, and individuals across the UK.
It is a vital opportunity to raise awareness, improve understanding, and inspire action to support those living with Dementia and the Carers who support them.

🧠 What is Dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of progressive neurological conditions that affect memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday activities.
There are many different types of Dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common.

Dementia is not a natural part of ageing — it is caused by diseases of the brain.
While it is more common in people over 65, younger people can also be affected.

Living with Dementia can be challenging, not just for the individual, but also for the family members and friends who take on caring responsibilities. Raising awareness and promoting understanding helps create a more inclusive and supportive society for everyone affected.

💬 Why Dementia Action Week Matters

Dementia Action Week is about more than just raising awareness — it is about taking action.
By improving knowledge and understanding, we can tackle stigma, encourage early diagnosis, and ensure that those living with Dementia and their Carers have access to the support they need.

Key aims of Dementia Action Week include:

• Raising public understanding of what Dementia is and how it affects individuals and families.
• Encouraging people to seek help early if they are concerned about memory problems.
• Promoting Dementia-friendly communities, where people living with Dementia feel supported, understood, and included.
• Highlighting the vital role of unpaid Carers, who provide incredible support to loved ones living with Dementia.

🌍 How You Can Support Dementia Action Week

Everyone has a part to play in making a difference. Here are a few ways you can get involved:

• Learn more about Dementia: Take some time to understand the different types of Dementia and how they affect people.
• Start conversations: Talk with friends, family, and colleagues about Dementia to help normalise the conversation.
• Challenge misconceptions: Help tackle stigma by sharing accurate information and encouraging understanding.
• Support Carers: Acknowledge and appreciate the incredible work of those caring for someone living with Dementia.
• Promote kindness and patience: Small acts of patience and empathy can make everyday situations easier for someone living with Dementia.

Together, we can create a society that is more inclusive, supportive, and empowering for those living with Dementia and their Carers. Whilst a diagnosis can be life-changing, it does not define a person.
By working together, raising awareness, and taking positive action, we can build communities where everyone affected by Dementia feels valued, understood, and supported.

This week — and every week — let’s take action for a better future for people living with Dementia and those who care for them.

Celebrating Carers Week 2025: Championing Equality for Unpaid Carers

Carers Week 2025, taking place from 9–15 June, shines a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of the UK’s 5.8 million unpaid Carers. This year’s theme, Caring About Equality, underscores the disparities and challenges carers face, including financial hardship, social isolation, and limited access to support services.

Understanding the Theme: Caring About Equality 

Unpaid Carers are the backbone of our society, providing essential care to family members, friends, and neighbours. Despite their significant contributions, many Carers experience inequalities that impact their health, finances, and opportunities.

Our Events and Activities for you

Forward Carers are putting on several events over Carers week. Some are available to book now and more will appear in early June.  

Rights at Work 

Support for Working Carers: Your Rights at Work & Financial Wellbeing. Join us for an informative online session exploring Carers leave and your rights in the workplace.  

Learn how the Carer’s Leave Act and other rights can support you as a working Carer. Find out how to approach conversations with your employer about your entitlements. Hear from expert guest speakers, including the Carer Money Matters Project, covering benefits, budgeting help, and local financial support. 

📅 Session Times on Microsoft Teams: 

Lunch & Learn: 1:00–1:45pm (plus 15 min Q&A)  

Evening : 7pm – 7,45pm (plus 15 min Q&A) 

Take a look at what else is happening here:  Calendly 

What’s on in Wiltshire

Explore a range of events for Carers in Wiltshire. From support groups to informative sessions, there’s something for every Carer.

You can also use these links for What’s On near you… 

Our Dorset Carers Week Events

Available to Wiltshire Carers too!

Join the Our Dorset community in celebrating Carers Week with a series of events aimed at recognising and supporting Carers across the region Carers Week 2025 – Our Dorset and we have some special events:  

Hiddens Gardens Event Blandford Forum. (In partnership with Forward Carers and Carer Support Dorset) 

Come and explore this fascinating Georgian gem, described as a “Little Bath in bricks”. Visit some very different gardens – Georgian to modern, large to courtyard, including ones not opened before. Refreshments available. Some plants will be available for sale. 

Cost – Free Entry to first 50 Carers and half price thereafter, with Carers ID Card. (usually £7.00) to visit all the gardens, accompanied under 18s free.

How to get tickets / programmes

Blandford Town Museum – Contact Us | Blandford Town Museum 

Location: Blandford’s Hidden Gardens | the National UK Open Gardens Directory

 

Spring Into Support this April 🌼

We know that being asked to take part in surveys can sometimes feel like you’re saying the same thing repeatedly and you don’t see the impact. Sadly, some changes take a long time.  As Carers, your time is precious and often stretched between work, caring responsibilities, and everyday life. That’s why we want to be clear that we feel these two surveys are important – they are about you, your experiences, and how to improve support and research for Carers in the future.  

Take a moment to have your say—and don’t forget to check out our updated Carer discounts in Dorset!

HELP SHAPE FUTURE CARER RESEARCH – SHARE YOUR VIEWS

The research team at Bournemouth University is inviting Carers in the Wessex region (Dorset & Wiltshire) to take part in two important surveys. Your insights will help shape future Carer-focused research and better support systems for those balancing work and caring roles. 

1. Working Carers In Wessex Survey 

Many working Carers juggle employment with caring responsibilities – a tough balancing act that can affect wellbeing, relationships, and job stability. This survey seeks to better understand these challenges and gather your views on what research is most needed. 

✅ Who can take part? 
Unpaid Carers aged 18+ who are currently employed and live in Wessex (Dorset/Wiltshire). 

📋 What will you be asked? 
You’ll be asked about the support you receive at work, areas you think need more research, and basic personal information to help with analysis. 

2. Unpaid Carers In Wessex Survey

This second survey focuses on unpaid Carers more broadly. Whether or not you’re in paid employment, the aim is to learn about your experiences with research and hear your ideas for how Carers can be more involved in shaping future projects. 

✅ Who can take part? 
Any unpaid Carer aged 18+ living in the Wessex region (Dorset/Wiltshire). 

📋 What will you be asked? 
You’ll be invited to share any previous research involvement, what topics matter most to you, and how we can make research more accessible for Carers. 

Why Your Voice Matters 

Both surveys are part of the Building Carer Research Capacity project, which aims to ensure that future research is shaped by Carers’ real-life experiences and priorities. Your feedback could help influence better policy, support services, and understanding of what it really means to be a unpaid Carer.  

If you have any questions or would like to learn more, you can contact: 

Dr Andy Pulman 
Post Doctoral Researcher in Social Care 
📧 Email: apulman@bournemouth.ac.uk 

Healthwatch Survey

Healthwatch exists to be the voice of the patient. Listening to the views and experiences of people using health and social care services in order to help improve them.  

This survey is looking at the experiences of unpaid Carers, looking after people over the age of 18. They want to know what happens when someone rejects being given care and the impact that this has on their Carer.   

They are also interested in what it is like to access care on behalf of someone else and the barriers that carers face.   

Thank you for considering taking part – your voice can make a real difference.

How are you impacted when the person you care for refuses to accept help? 

Do you feel involved in decisions made about the people you care for? 

Healthwatch exists to be the voice of the patient. Listening to the views and experiences of people using health and social care services in order to help improve them. 

This survey is looking at the experiences of unpaid Carers, looking after people over the age of 18. They want to know what happens when someone rejects being given care and the impact that this has on their Carer.  

They are also interested in what it is like to access care on behalf of someone else and the barriers that carers face.  

Thank you for taking part and making your voice heard.  

Welcome to our March newsletter! As the weather begins to improve, we hope you are finding moments to enjoy the change of season and are feeling supported in your caring role. In this addition we’re excited to introduce Carer Money Matters, a new support service developed with Carers Trust, available in Dorset & Wiltshire. Offering guidance and resources to help Carers manage finances, access benefits, and navigate financial challenges. We’re also recognising Young Carers Action Day, held on Wednesday, 12th March, with the theme “Give Me A Break,” highlighting the need for young Carers to have time to rest and recharge.

NEW SERVICE- CARER MONEY MATTERS

Carer Support Dorset & Wiltshire are excited to announce a new service, Carer Money Matters. Designed in collaboration with the Carers Trust, Carer Money Matters will offer Carers guidance and resources to help manage finances, access benefits, and navigate financial challenges in their caregiving roles. 

Worried About Making Ends Meet For You Or The People You’re Caring For? 

We want to help you feel more confident about money, for you and the people you’re caring for. Carer Money Matters can help you understand, and get, the financial support you’re entitled to.  

Offering free advice on energy saving and energy debt, and help to get you on the Priority Services Register with your supplier. This will help you get extra support with things like meter readings, advance warnings of supply interruptions and how to save on cooking and heating. You’ll also get priority reconnection if your supply is interrupted. Also, advice on practical ways to reduce your energy bills that work for your individual circumstances.

The Financial Wellbeing Officers can talk to you about other money matters too, whether it’s for you or the people you care for. Balancing caring responsibilities and finances isn’t easy, and they can help you to access the support you need to manage money and reduce debt.  

We also know that a majority of carers are either forced to leave work altogether or to reduce their paid hours because of the pressures of their caring roles. So if you’re thinking about how to balance work and caring, they can also support with things like interview practice, job searching and getting your CV into shape.  

Carer Support Wiltshire at email admin@carersupportwiltshire.co.uk, or call 0800 181 4118 and leave a message.

YOUNG CARERS ACTION DAY

National Savings for Carers- affiliated with Discounts for Carers

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: 

Parkdean Resorts-Celebrity Weekenders-Up to 10% Carers Discount. Discounts – Forward Carers 

Trainpal Railcards-Up to 20% Carers Discount on train tickets, 20% discount for new customers & 10% discount for existing customers. Discounts – Forward Carers 

Go Ape-15% Carers Discount. Discounts – Forward Carers 

Johnston Prams-10% Carers Discount. Discounts – Forward Carers 

Body Shop- 20% Carers Discount on full price. Discounts – Forward Carers 

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.  

2. 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. 

Student Volunteering Week is a national celebration, led by the Student Volunteering Network, taking place across universities, colleges, and schools. This special week highlights the incredible impact student volunteers make and encourages more young people to get involved.

Why Get Involved in Student Volunteering?

Volunteering as a student is more than just giving back—it’s about personal growth, professional development, and making meaningful connections. Here’s how volunteering can benefit you:

1. Boosts Wellbeing – Volunteering can improve your mental health and happiness. In fact, NCVO’s 2019 Time Well Spent survey found that over three-quarters of volunteers reported improved wellbeing through their involvement.
2. Enhances Employability – Employers value practical experience. Volunteering is a fantastic way to build your CV, develop key skills, and gain insight into different industries.
3. Builds Connections – It’s an opportunity to meet like-minded people, expand your social circle, and form lasting friendships.
4. Provides Career Insights – If you’re unsure about your career path, volunteering allows you to explore different roles and sectors before committing.
5. Develops Confidence & Skills – From communication to leadership, volunteering helps you grow personally and professionally.
6. Creates a Sense of Purpose – Knowing your efforts are making a difference can be incredibly fulfilling.

Volunteering Opportunities with Forward Carers

We are always looking for passionate volunteers to help us support unpaid Carers. Whether you have a few hours to spare or want to get involved regularly, we have roles to suit you:

• Administration – We need volunteers who are you great at organising and ensuring everything runs smoothly
• Awareness Raising – We need volunteers to raise the profile of unpaid Carers and signpost them to support
• Community Engagement – Encourage the local community and businesses to become Carer Friendly
• Carers Voice Programme – Get involved in shaping support for Carers by completing surveys, joining focus groups, or sharing your own story through blogs, videos or podcasts. Sign up here.
  
  
  

Volunteering with Kissing it Better (KiB)

One of our partners, Kissing it Better (KiB), connects young volunteers with older people to help reduce loneliness. University students who have volunteered with KiB say the experience has helped them manage anxiety and feel more connected, particularly during their first year.

If you enjoy singing, creating art, giving relaxing hand massages, or simply sharing stories to brighten someone’s day, volunteering with KiB might be perfect for you. To find out more, contact Kristy at kristy@kibmail.co.uk.

Recognition for Your Contribution

We truly value our volunteers! After six months of volunteering with Forward Carers, you will receive:

✔ A reference to support your future applications

✔ A certificate of appreciation

✔ LinkedIn recommendations to boost your profile

Ready to Make a Difference?

Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back while gaining invaluable experience. Email us at carerfriendly@forwardcarers.org.uk to discuss your interests and find out how you can get involved. We’ll provide full support and training.

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:

• Online events, groups and 1-1 appointments

• A Benefits Calculator to check what you might be entitled to 

• The option to self-refer to local Carer services 

• A quick way to apply for the Wiltshire Carers ID Card 
  

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: 

• In healthcare settings 

• To access free or discounted entry to attractions and businesses 

• At work, to request support as a working Carer
  

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: 

• Apply online at Carer ID Card – Wiltshire Carers. 

• Ask a friend or family member to help complete the form. 

• Call Wiltshire Council’s phone advisor for support at 0300 456 0100. 

• Request a paper form by emailing carerfriendly@forwardcarers.org.uk or calling 0121 2740 439 (Forward Carers admin team and not a helpline). 

• Visit a library drop-in session for help. 
  

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!