Introduction

The legal definition of an ‘unpaid carer’ is a person of any age who provides care for an adult or disabled child, but does not receive payment except for carer related allowances. Another term that is often used to describe these circumstances is ‘informal care.’

There is no ‘typical carer’. In reality, carers can include young people; young adults, parents, working age adults or older people. Essentially, a person is a carer if they look after family, partners or friends in need of help because they are ill, frail or have a disability.

Being an unpaid carer can be challenging. That’s why it’s important they feel listened to and understood, and have access to up-to-date information, advice and services such as support groups.

Through research and working with unpaid carers across the region, we can build a picture of how unpaid carers may be feeling.

The most common asks and issues raised by carers are:

  • Easy access to a central point of up-to-date, easy to understand information and advice. 
  • Access to support groups, respite and short breaks to recharge batteries, and more free time for young carers to spend with friends/ socialise
  • To be respected, communicated to and listened to by professionals
  • To increase awareness of the caring role so both society and professionals have more knowledge and understanding of the challenges faced
  • More practical and emotional support to ease pressure, and prolong health and wellbeing 
  • More funding and resources
  • Access to discounted and accessible transport 
  • Access to appropriate training and workshops to support carers in their caring role.
  • Increased awareness and uptake of carers assessments

Information such as this helps us to understand how unpaid carers can be supported, both practically and emotionally. 

Whether you are an unpaid carer, a professional or a family member/ friend, this page will  keep you up to date on our progress and ways to get involved.

Carers Champions information pack

This A-Z guide provides up to date information about support services for carers and residents living in the region.

Open

Creating a supportive environment for young carers in Merthyr Tydfil.

Being a young carer comes with many challenges. Barnardo’s ‘Hyder Project’ has supported these young people in many ways.

Read more

Meet Kay

My name is Kay Tyler and I have been carer representative on the RPB for over two years.

My personal experiences have helped me to understand and appreciate how important it is for unpaid carers to be involved in the work of our RPB.

So we can use our voices, views and lived experience to help plan, improve and develop the services we receive.