We support unpaid carers who look after someone who is ill, disabled, elderly, or misuses substances
We're an innovative carer-led charity and provide free support to carers of all ages. We aim to ensure carers receive timely information and support. We offer training courses, peer support, and encourage and help carers to have time away from caring to maintain their health and wellbeing. We also provide opportunities for carers to have a voice and influence those involved in the planning and delivery of health, care and community services in Hertfordshire. Our services are for people who live, work or care in Hertfordshire, or have a GP in Herts. We also support bereaved carers for three years after the death of the person they cared for. "I'm grateful to my mentor and Carers in Hertfordshire for providing such valuable support. Knowing there's someone impartial and understanding to help me with my journey as a carer has been an enormous blessing. Whenever I received a call it cheered me up and reminded me that life isn't that bad, that there are people who care." A bereaved carer.
Why the community needs usOur work highlights the needs of the hidden unpaid carers that are often looking after someone with little or no support. Carers are at higher risk of suffering depression, report feeling isolated and some neglect their own health by putting off making or attending health appointments. With around 118,000 carers in Herts and one in eight adults in the UK caring for someone it's important we reach out to unpaid carers so they are identified and have access to the services to help them.
Our impact on the communityOver 31,000 unpaid carers have registered with us - 1,660 of which are under 18. Last year, we supported 22,636 carers with information and guidance. We also provided intensive support to 269 young carers and their families to reduce the negative impact of their caring role and ensure they have the same educational and social opportunities as their peers. More than 13,000 carers have our Carers' Passport, which gives them access to savings and offers in restaurants, shops and other businesses.
We always need volunteers to support us in making carers count and have a range of roles to suit most skills and experience. Some roles are office based and others are out in the community - helping raise awareness, funds or supporting carers.
