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! 

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.  

• FREE Membership in the Carer Friendly Community network 

• Promotion of your offer to Carers and their families across Wiltshire and the UK 

• Access to free training sessions to help you better understand and support Carers 

• Enhanced reputation as a socially responsible business 
  

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: 

• Carer Friendly Workplace training 

• Resources to support Carers in your team 

• Recognition in the community for your outstanding commitment 
  

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.  

• Do you have a current offer or wish to offer a discount?  

• Make home visits?  

• Have a welcoming venue and caring staff?  

• Are a Carer yourself and can share this understanding? 

• Essential Carers go FREE  

• You are signed up as dementia friendly? 
  

Get Started Today

• Learn more about Carers ID card programme  Carer ID Card – Wiltshire Carers 

• Register your offer or discount for Carers at  Register a discount  

• Book A FREE discovery, learn about the project and Carers 

• Contact us to learn more about the Carer Friendly Employer Pledge or book your free training session Carerfriendly@forwardcarers.org,uk  

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? 

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.