What’s the solution?

Last week, the BBC Breakfast show had a daily segment focussing on the state of the care system in 2024. Whilst I found it heartening to watch the various organisations and carers talking about the challenges they face – I was also dismayed to hear the all too familiar issues arise. Carer’s having to quit their jobs to care for loved ones, another unable to undergo necessary surgery because of the absence of support in caring for her husband during the recovery period. Young carers putting their lives on hold and juggling education and caring responsibilities, and parent carers burnt out from battling the social care system.

Having been a full-time caregiver for nearly 16 years, it seems little has changed. I have heard these stories over and over and there still remains an inadequacy of support, services, and resources, leaving caregivers drained, with their needs relegated to the bottom of the priority list.

As parent-carers, we often place ourselves last – a sentiment shared by many parents who instinctively prioritize their children’s well-being. However, the imbalance becomes glaringly evident for caregivers, where the demands of care and selflessness seem never-ending, not to mention the financial strain and scarcity of time.

Giving airtime to this problem is essential, as it most certainly raises awareness and can drive change - the more visible and vocal we are about our struggles, the greater the likelihood of prompting action. Nevertheless, in the interim, caregivers’ mental and physical health can deteriorate, leading to health problems and in some cases, severe consequences such as suicide.

I once found myself trapped in this cycle of complaints, stress, emotional turmoil, and a sense of unfairness. Fed up with this cycle, I was prompted to seek help, investing in my own well-being through self-improvement, health management, and coaching.

Now, my focus is on solutions.

I refuse to spend energy on dwelling on the problems, assigning blame, or wallowing in anger and resentment. Yes, it’s useful to identify what’s not working, yet moving on and taking action is where change happens. Carers Collective reflects this. Our aim is to help parent carers clear the mental clutter of stress and overwhelm. Our goal is to support you in building resilience and leave you feeling resourceful and hopeful, empowered to find solutions and take the necessary steps for change in your personal life and beyond.

How We Can Help

Our Building Resilience and Wellbeing 6 week programme for parent carers is impactful, and will result in a transformative shift in your thoughts and emotions. We firmly believe that reclaiming control starts with us. As we improve our approach, we, in turn, empower those around us to do the same.