Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. These carers save the UK economy £132 billion per year, an average of £19,336 per carer (Carers UK) and they should receive the receive the recognition and support they deserve.

They support family members and friends who have a disability, a mental or physical illness or need extra help as they grow older.

It also helps people who don’t think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.

They are carers like Rana who has looked after her autistic brother since March 2013 when he moved to the UK from Syria. She also cares for her son who has severe autism.

“I met an advisor from Carers Network who was very helpful. At the time I wasn’t very good at using the internet and they helped me apply for my Carers Personal Budget.”

During the pandemic Rana had her son home-schooling when schools were closed, which created additional challenges to her caring role. Her brother was also worried and more anxious than normal due to all the news about Coronavirus. As a result, they were more isolated than before.

“With the support of Carers Network, I feel like I have a voice. Carers often feel like no one cares for them and it is a hard life which other people don’t understand. It is a difficult job, and you don’t have time to study or work. When I speak to Carers Network, they understand my situation and relate to me.”

The support Carers Network provides to carers like Rana will help them be more visible, valued and supported in the community, not just during Carers Week, but throughout the whole year.