Carers’ Resource is running a series of events in Bradford to reach out to unpaid carers during the period of Ramadan this spring.
The latest figures show that around 46,000 people in the Bradford district identified themselves as unpaid carers in the 2021 census – but it’s believed there may be as many as 100,000 unpaid carers in the district.
Promotional events are due to take place at SaveCo in Thornbury Rd, Bradford, from 11am-4pm on Saturday March 18th and Friday March 24th, and at Manchester Superstore in Florence St, Bradford, from 11am-4pm, on Saturday April 1st and Wednesday April 5th.
The events aim to raise awareness of unpaid caring and the help available from Carers’ Resource. The charity provides emotional and practical support to people who are looking after a friend, neighbour or relative who could not manage otherwise because of frailty, illness, addiction or disability.
Chris Whiley, CEO of Carers’ Resource, said: “We know there are many unpaid carers who might be looking after a partner with health issues, a child with additional needs, or an elderly, frail parent, but don’t recognise themselves as carers.
“This is a challenge across the board but research has shown it is a particular issue for unpaid carers from minority ethnic backgrounds.
“Caring can be a positive experience but it can also often have an impact on a person’s own physical and mental health and wellbeing, finances, education and employment.
“We want to let all carers, of any age, background or identity, know that they have rights, and we are here for them and can offer support.”
A research study last year by Carers Trust Wales found that there were a number of practical and cultural barriers facing some carers from minoritised groups, which are preventing unpaid carers from receiving the support they need.
These included a lack of awareness of carer rights and services, language barriers, issues with cultural sensitivity and expectations, and perceptions of what it is to be a carer.
Carers’ Resource has been running for over 25 years and has had a base in Shipley since 2009. The charity provides a wide range of services for unpaid carers including one-to-one support, information, support groups, employment and training advice, planning for emergencies, and wellbeing.
