The theme this year is “Know your rights, use your rights”. This day is a call to recognise and celebrate the vital contribution of unpaid Carers and to ensure that you – the Carers we support – are empowered with the knowledge, tools and support you deserve.

Why this day matters

There are an estimated 5.8 million unpaid Carers in the UK – people providing care to a partner, family member, friend or neighbour without being paid. Many Carers do not recognise themselves as Carers, and may miss out on the rights and support available. Knowing your rights is not just about legal entitlement, it’s about safeguarding your wellbeing, protecting your role as a Carer, and enabling the person you care for to receive the best support.

What rights should Carers know about?

Here are some of the key rights and entitlements you should be aware of:

• The right to a Carer’s Assessment: if your caring role is affecting your life, you have the right to ask your local authority for an assessment to identify support for you.
• The right to be identified as a Carer: for example, on GP records, and to access immunisations or health checks.
• Employment-related rights: you have the right to request flexible working from day one of employment, and under the new framework you can change arrangements more than once a year.
• The right to challenge when your rights are not being met: whether that is discrimination in the workplace, being left out of decisions about the person you care for, or transitions between children’s and adult services.

What we at Forward Carers are doing…

As a values-driven social enterprise dedicated to recognising, valuing and supporting unpaid Carers, here’s how we are marking this Carers Rights Day:

Events (online & in- person) across our regions (Birmingham, Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall, Dorset and Wiltshire) to help you understand your rights, ask questions and access support.

• Measurement and impact focus: we will track how many Carers access the sessions, how many undertake a Carer’s Assessment after the event, and how many report feeling more confident in exercising their rights in our service areas over next 12 months.
• Testimonies & case-studies: sharing real-life stories of unpaid Carers we support, to highlight the difference that rights awareness can make.

Why it matters for Carers and whole families…

For the Carer: this day and ongoing work is about you – your health, your potential to carry out caring in a sustainable way, your ability to have a life outside caring.

For the person you care for: when you are supported and empowered, the quality of care improves, the relationship is stronger, and the whole family benefits.

For services & businesses: recognising and supporting unpaid Carers reduces hidden costs, prevents crises, and builds resilient, Carer-Friendly communities. Indeed, Carers underpin our health and social care systems, and deserve to be “seen, heard and supported”.

How you can get involved

• If you are a Carer (or think you might be) — book into one of our Carers Rights Day sessions and use the day to gain information and advice or: “What rights am I entitled to? Am I using them?”
• If you are an employer or organisation — join us in promoting Carer-Friendly policies, sharing resources, and making your workplace one where Carers are recognised and supported.
• Share your story: whether via our social channels or email us — your voice helps others realise they are not alone.

Closing thoughts

On this Carers Rights Day we commit to standing with you: helping you know your rights, feel confident to use them, and supporting you to live a life beyond caring. As one of our partners said recently: “When Carers understand their rights, everything changes.” We look forward to working together to build Carer-Friendly Communities where unpaid Carers are truly recognised, valued and supported.

Are you ready to rediscover your confidence, explore new opportunities, and take the next step after caring?

Forward Carers, in partnership with BMet College, is excited to offer the ReStart: Next Steps Programme — a free two-week course designed especially for current and former unpaid Carers. Thanks to funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, this brand-new programme has been co-created to help Carers build confidence, reflect on their skills, and take positive steps towards education, training, or work.

What’s Included

🗓 Key Dates

• Assessment Day: Wednesday 12th November, 10am–1pm
• Course Dates: Monday 17th November – Friday 5th December
• Location: Matthew Boulton College, 1 Jennens Road, Birmingham, B4 7PS

Why Join?

Caring for someone often means putting your own ambitions on hold. The ReStart Programme is here to remind you of your potential and help you take the next step — whether that’s returning to education, exploring a new career path, or simply regaining confidence in what you have to offer.

This course has been developed with Carers in mind, combining expert guidance from BMet tutors with Forward Carers’ understanding of Carer experiences. Together, we’re helping to build Carer Friendly Communities across the West Midlands, where every Carer feels recognised, valued, and supported to thrive.

Book Your Free Place

Spaces are limited — don’t miss this opportunity to invest in yourself and your future.

For more information, contact adultskills@bmet.ac.uk

We’re delighted to share the impact of the free bus pass service, provided in partnership with Travel West Midlands. Carers across our community have told us how valuable this support has been – not just for practical journeys, but also for wellbeing, connection, and independence. 

Here are some of the ways Carers have been using their bus passes: 

Supporting the person/people, they care for 

• Getting to appointments: Many Carers use the pass to take the person they care for to essential GP, hospital, or therapy appointments, ensuring health needs are met without worrying about the cost of travel. 
• Other caring journeys: Whether it’s picking up prescriptions, visiting day centres, or accompanying their loved one to activities, Carers told us the pass gives them peace of mind that these everyday journeys are covered. 
  

Supporting Their Own Needs as a Carer 

• Carer support groups & wellbeing sessions: Carers are using the pass to attend drop-ins, peer support groups, or wellbeing classes. Having travel covered helps reduce barriers to taking a well-earned break. 
• Medical appointments: Carers often put their own health last. Having free travel means they can get to GP or hospital appointments more easily, prioritising their own wellbeing. 
• Staying Connected and Active 
• Social activities: The pass has enabled Carers to meet friends, visit community hubs, and enjoy leisure time – vital for reducing isolation and boosting mental health. 
• Shopping & errands: Carers told us how useful the pass is for running everyday errands such as food shopping, collecting essentials, and managing household tasks. 
• Work and volunteering: For Carers seeking work, attending training, or volunteering, the pass is a lifeline. It helps them explore new opportunities without financial strain. 
  
  

We had contacted the 259 Carers that had the benefit of receiving the code and 81 responding and answered the following questions  

Did using the pass make your caring role easier? 100% Strongly Agreed or Agreed 

Did using the bus pass help reduce your stress? 98% Strongly Agreed or Agreed 

Did using the bus pass help you feel more connected to friends, family and community? 98% Strongly Agreed or Agreed. 

What Carers Told Us 

Carers highlighted that having a bus pass: 

• Reduces stress around travel costs. 
• Helps them feel more independent and in control. 
• Encourages them to prioritise their own wellbeing. 
• Makes it easier to take part in community life. 
  

Here are some of their words: 

“The bus pass has opened doors for me. I can take my mum to her appointments, go to my support group, and even meet a friend for coffee – things that make a huge difference to my mental health.” 

“The bus drivers are so helpful, and you often end up having a friendly chat with other passengers. It makes the journey less stressful and more enjoyable.” 

“You meet and speak to different people who share their daily life experiences. You hear different cultural ideas and learn what’s going on in the city – things you’d never know about if you weren’t out and about.” 

“It’s more than just transport – it makes me feel part of the community again.” 

“I gave up work to care for my mother. She has various health issues and the past three years have been particularly hard work with numerous hospital admissions. I am not in great shape; my joints make driving difficult for me at times so getting this bus pass is amazing and has made such a difference to me.” 

A special thank you to all the 81 Carers that took the time to send their feedback on the Bus Pass Service. And congratulations to the Carer that has received the £20 Gift Card your thoughts are important to us to create a service that’s right for you. 

Why This Matters 

Transport costs can be a real barrier for unpaid Carers. By removing this barrier, the free bus pass service ensures Carers and their families can access health care, stay socially connected, and take steps towards work or volunteering. The scheme is helping to create Carer Friendly Communities where Carers are recognised, valued, and supported. 

We’re delighted to celebrate the success of this year’s Dudley Young Carers summer holiday activity programme, funded by the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme. It has been an inspiring and fun-packed few weeks filled with joy, laughter, and new experiences for local Young Carers.

Over the summer, Young Carers enjoyed a wide variety of exciting opportunities. The programme began with an End of Term Disco and went on to include go-karting, adventures at Dudley Zoo, and a relaxing scenic canal trip. The fun continued with youth clubs featuring visits from the amazing Animal Man, an inflatable assault course, and creative sessions such as arts and crafts and tie-dying socks.

Young Carers also built confidence and friendships through pizza making, sports, and biscuit decorating – giving them well-deserved time away from caring responsibilities. These sessions gave children and young people the chance to simply have fun, try new things, and connect with others who understand their journey.

The impact has been clear: Young Carers have gained new skills, made special memories, and most importantly, had time to just be children and young people. Some took part in their very first session, but we’re sure it won’t be their last.

This year’s programme provided nearly 200 places across eight sessions, with around 70 Young Carers aged from five to 17 taking part. Each session included food, ensuring Young Carers could enjoy a complete day of activity, fun, and nourishment.

Behind the scenes, a huge amount of planning and organisation goes into making a programme like this possible. From securing funding and planning activities, to booking venues, coordinating staff and volunteers, and arranging meals, the work begins months in advance. Thanks to the dedication and creativity of the team, everything came together to deliver a smooth and memorable summer programme.

👏 A big thank you to everyone who contributed to making this holiday programme such a success. You have helped create a summer filled with joy, laughter, and lasting experiences for Dudley’s Young Carers.

Caring for a loved one is one of the most important – and often challenging – roles anyone can take on. Whether you support a parent, partner, child, or friend, every day brings situations where your actions make a real difference to their wellbeing. That’s why training opportunities such as First Aid and Moving and Assisting are so valuable for Carers.

Protecting Your Loved One – and Yourself

When emergencies happen, knowing what to do can save lives. A simple understanding of First Aid – from recognising signs of a stroke or heart attack to responding to a fall – gives Carers peace of mind and the ability to act quickly and calmly.

Moving and Assisting training is equally important. Many Carers help with everyday tasks such as supporting someone to get out of bed, into a chair, or up the stairs. Without the right techniques, there’s a real risk of injury both to the person being supported and to you as the Carer. This training helps you protect your back, reduce strain, and feel confident about safe handling.

Boosting Confidence and Reducing Stress

Carers often tell us that one of the hardest parts of their role is the worry – “What if something goes wrong?” Training provides reassurance. Knowing you have the skills to manage situations safely means fewer sleepless nights and less anxiety day to day. With greater confidence comes greater independence for both you and the person you care for.

Building Community and Support

Training sessions are not just about learning skills. They are also an opportunity to meet other Carers who understand your situation. Sharing experiences and tips with others can help reduce feelings of isolation and build a supportive network.

Free Training – Sign Up Today

We’re delighted to offer free First Aid and Moving and Assisting training sessions for Carers. Delivered by experienced trainers, these practical, hands-on sessions are designed with Carers in mind – focused on real-life situations you might face at home.

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss this chance to build your confidence, protect your wellbeing, and gain skills that could make all the difference.

👉 Sign up to book your free training place today via  Calendly – Carer Friendly Dudley  or call Dudley Carers Hub on 01348 818723

We are pleased to announce we have been given a few more Bus Pass codes free to Carers that are registered with Birmingham Carers Hub. This is going to be first come first served and they will go fast, so please apply.

You will need to meet the eligible criteria which is :-

• Over 16+.
• Registered with Birmingham Carers Hub and/or received a service from one of our partner companies.
• Not previously received a code from us or another company.

As the school bell rings out for the final time this term, summer is here—and for Dudley Young Carers, that means one thing: time for fun, freedom, and new experiences. Thanks to the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, the weeks ahead are packed with exciting opportunities to enjoy the break, recharge, and just be kids. 

What is the HAF Programme? 

The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme is a Government-funded initiative offering free activities and meals during school holidays for children and young people aged 5–16 who receive benefits-related Free School Meals (FSM) or are part of a vulnerable group. 

In Dudley, the Council works with local partners to deliver a vibrant mix of sessions throughout the summer—from football and forest schools to dance, drama, and cookery. 

Why It’s Special for Young Carers 

Young Carers often juggle caring responsibilities at home; helping with medication, managing routines, or providing emotional support to family members. During the summer, when their peers may be enjoying freedom and sunshine, these responsibilities can feel even heavier. 

That’s why the HAF programme is so valuable—it gives Young Carers a chance to: 

• Play and explore without pressure 

• Make friends and meet other young people 

• Enjoy healthy, tasty meals 

• Discover new hobbies and talents 

• Feel part of the summer holiday fun 
  
  

What’s on Offer? 

This year’s HAF summer programme in Dudley is bursting with energy and creativity. Young Carers can look forward to: 

• Schools Out!  – Summer Disco 

• Family trip to Dudley Zoo – see the exotic animals 

• Youth club sessions – including sports, craft and much more 

• Nature adventures – Animal experience at Youth club 

• Soft play – burn off energy! 

• Family Canal trip – connect with the outdoors and relax 

• Go Karting – high energy fun and competition 

• Nutritious meals and snacks – fuelling fun and wellbeing 
  
  

A Well-Deserved Break 

For many Young Carers, the summer holidays can be just as demanding as term time. The HAF programme offers a break from daily caring responsibilities, a chance to have fun, and opportunities to grow in confidence. For families, it also provides peace of mind, knowing their child is safe, engaged, and well-fed in a supportive environment. 

Working Together to Support Young Carers 

Forward Carers is committed to ensuring Young Carers have the best summer possible. By working alongside Dudley Council and HAF providers, we help Young Carers access fun, inclusive, and rewarding activities, while ensuring their needs are recognised and supported. 

If you know a Young Carer in Dudley, encourage them to sign up and dive into a summer of fun—they’ve more than earned it. 💛 

As we mark Carers Week 2025, Forward Carers is celebrating the incredible unpaid Carers who support loved ones every day – and the communities stepping up to support them in return. 

This year’s Carers Week theme, “Putting Carers on the Map,” is a powerful reminder of how vital it is to recognise and support those who care – and that starts with our local communities. Carers are everywhere: they are our neighbours, our colleagues, our friends and our family members. Yet many go unrecognised and unsupported, simply because the people and places around them aren’t aware of the role they play. 

At Forward Carers, we believe that every Carer deserves to be seen, valued and supported – not just by services, but by the community around them. That’s why our Carer Friendly Communities work is so vital. 

🌍 What is a Carer Friendly Community? 

A Carer Friendly Community is one where unpaid Carers are recognised, respected and supported in everyday life – whether they’re visiting a GP, attending school, going to work, or popping into a local shop. 

Through our Carer Friendly Communities programme, Forward Carers works with: 

• Businesses and employers to become Carer Friendly Employers 

• Health and care professionals to spot and support Carers early 

• Community groups and local services to improve accessibility and understanding 

• Schools and colleges to support young and young adult Carers 

By building awareness and making small, meaningful changes, we help local organisations create inclusive environments where Carers feel seen and supported – without having to ask. 

🏆 Recognising Carer Friendly Champions 

Part of our mission is to celebrate and showcase the organisations that are making a real difference to Carers. From GP surgeries with dedicated Carer leads, to high street businesses offering flexible appointments or quiet spaces, we’ve seen incredible examples of inclusive practice in action. 

Our Carer Friendly ID Card Scheme and Carer Aware Training also help professionals to understand what it means to be Carer aware – and how they can help Carers access the right support at the right time. 

If your organisation would like to become more Carer Friendly, we’d love to support you. It’s free, flexible, and could make all the difference to someone who is caring in silence. 

💙 Carers Week: Let’s Put Carers on the Map – Together 

This Carers Week, we’re not just celebrating Carers – we’re calling on everyone in the community to take action. 

Whether you’re a school, shop, faith group, local employer or health provider, you can help create a more inclusive, compassionate community by becoming Carer Friendly. 

Together, we can ensure that Carers feel supported in every space they walk into – not just during Carers Week, but every week of the year. 

🔗 Find out more and get involved in our Carer Friendly Communities initiative at www.forwardcarers.org.uk  

Dementia Action Week, taking place from Monday 20 May to Sunday 26 May 2025, is a national initiative led by the Alzheimer’s Society and supported by organisations, communities, and individuals across the UK.
It is a vital opportunity to raise awareness, improve understanding, and inspire action to support those living with Dementia and the Carers who support them.

🧠 What is Dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of progressive neurological conditions that affect memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday activities.
There are many different types of Dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common.

Dementia is not a natural part of ageing — it is caused by diseases of the brain.
While it is more common in people over 65, younger people can also be affected.

Living with Dementia can be challenging, not just for the individual, but also for the family members and friends who take on caring responsibilities. Raising awareness and promoting understanding helps create a more inclusive and supportive society for everyone affected.

💬 Why Dementia Action Week Matters

Dementia Action Week is about more than just raising awareness — it is about taking action.
By improving knowledge and understanding, we can tackle stigma, encourage early diagnosis, and ensure that those living with Dementia and their Carers have access to the support they need.

Key aims of Dementia Action Week include:

• Raising public understanding of what Dementia is and how it affects individuals and families.
• Encouraging people to seek help early if they are concerned about memory problems.
• Promoting Dementia-friendly communities, where people living with Dementia feel supported, understood, and included.
• Highlighting the vital role of unpaid Carers, who provide incredible support to loved ones living with Dementia.

🌍 How You Can Support Dementia Action Week

Everyone has a part to play in making a difference. Here are a few ways you can get involved:

• Learn more about Dementia: Take some time to understand the different types of Dementia and how they affect people.
• Start conversations: Talk with friends, family, and colleagues about Dementia to help normalise the conversation.
• Challenge misconceptions: Help tackle stigma by sharing accurate information and encouraging understanding.
• Support Carers: Acknowledge and appreciate the incredible work of those caring for someone living with Dementia.
• Promote kindness and patience: Small acts of patience and empathy can make everyday situations easier for someone living with Dementia.

Together, we can create a society that is more inclusive, supportive, and empowering for those living with Dementia and their Carers. Whilst a diagnosis can be life-changing, it does not define a person.
By working together, raising awareness, and taking positive action, we can build communities where everyone affected by Dementia feels valued, understood, and supported.

This week — and every week — let’s take action for a better future for people living with Dementia and those who care for them.

Despite a rainy Bank Holiday, our Male Carers Group enjoyed a unique wellbeing experience on Easter Monday, with a guided boat trip through the Dudley Canal and Tunnel Trust, uncovering centuries of Black Country history deep beneath the surface. 

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Bringing Carers Together 

The trip offered more than just a scenic ride – it provided much-needed time out, connection, and camaraderie. For many, it was a rare chance to take a break from their caring roles and share stories with others who truly understand. 

“Even with the rain pouring, it was fantastic to get out and chat with people who understand. The tunnels were brilliant – something I wouldn’t have done on my own,” shared one Carer. 

🌧️ A Rainy Day with Bright Moments 

Equipped with waterproofs and good humour, the group navigated the rain with ease. The underground tunnels provided shelter and sparked curiosity, with light projections and stories of canal heritage bringing history to life. 

Carers gathered in the on-site café afterwards for hot drinks and reflection – a perfect space for new friendships and peer support to grow. 

💬 Why These Trips Matter 

These group wellbeing activities are a vital part of our Carer support, giving Carers space to recharge and build meaningful connections. Even a rainy day can offer light and warmth when shared with others in a welcoming, supportive setting. 

“It was a relaxing couple of hours; we all had a good chat afterwards.”  LM 

Join the Male Carers Group 

The group meet on the third Monday of every month, at various locations across Dudley. The next session on Monday 19th May will return to Dudley Canal & Tunnels Trust, meeting in the Café at 12. Join Forward Carers Ambassador Neil and the group to chat and engage with nature with a relaxing stroll along the canal paths. 

 “I feel this group would be beneficial to anyone who joins “stated a regular attendee. 

For more information check the What’s On section of the website, carerfriendlydudley.org.uk or call Dudley Carers Hub on 01384 818723