WHAT'S NEW?
CARERS NETWORK HIGHLIGHTS THE INEQUALITIES FACING UNPAID CARERS IN THE UK
• 70% of carers have a long-term physical or mental health condition, disability or illness compared to 59% of non- carers.
• The poverty rate for carers is 50 % higher than for people who do not provide care.
• One in four carers who work have had to take on a lower paid or more junior role.
Millions of people across the UK provide unpaid care for a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, mental health conditions, or addiction, cannot manage without their support.
It is estimated that these carers save the economy £162bn annually, equivalent to the cost of a second NHS.
Carers should have the same life chances and opportunities as people without caring responsibilities. To make this happen, action is needed right across the board, with government, schools, colleges, universities, workplaces and health and social care services all having a vital role to play.
Carers Week 2025 took place this June, with the theme 'Caring About Equality' highlighting the inequalities faced by unpaid carers, including a greater risk of poverty, social isolation, poor mental and physical health. Far too oſten, carers of all-ages miss out on opportunities in their education, careers, or personal lives, just because of their caring role.
Research has found that:
Brian Jones, Chief Executive of Carers Network, said: “At Carers Network, we believe that unpaid carers must be recognised not just with words, but with meaningful action. This means sustained investment, inclusion in policy decisions, and coordinated support across public services. Caring should never come at the cost of opportunity, wellbeing, or dignity.”
www.carers-network.org.uk
CHIRK COURT OFFICIALLY OPENS ITS SENSORY GARDEN
A vibrant and welcoming sensory garden has officially opened at Chirk Court Nursing Home in Chirk, near Wrexham. Marking many months of dedicated planning, fundraising and hard work, the ribbon was cut by Mayor of Wrexham, Cllr Tina Mannering, alongside Disability Liaison Officer from Wrexham AFC Kerry Evans. Residents, staff, families and members of the local community gathered to celebrate.
Chirk Court’s Manager Jane Humphreys was the mastermind behind a new sensory garden, which has been designed with elderly residents and people living with dementia in mind.
The garden provides a safe, stimulating outdoor environment, where nature, colour, scent, sound and texture combine to support wellbeing, memory and relaxation. From accessible pathways, soothing wind chimes and running water to fragrant blooms, eye-catching features and raised beds ideal for wheelchair users; every element has been carefully considered to create a fully inclusive, relaxing space.
The creation of Chirk Court’s sensory garden was a team effort which involved extensive research, fundraising, and many hours of volunteering from both staff and residents. The result is a magnificent, multi-sensory experience, which is already having a positive impact.
The official opening of the garden was celebrated with excitement, as it was proudly unveiled to the local community.
Wrexham Mayor Cllr Tina Mannering said: “It was an absolute honour and privilege to jointly open such a beautiful, stunning
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www.tomorrowscare.co.uk
sensory garden. Jane and the staff have worked wonders, along with the residents and families.”
Jane Humphreys, Manager at Chirk Court, said: “Today has been a wonderful celebration of what we can achieve when we work together. I am so grateful for all the hard work and effort that everyone has put in, to create this fabulous space. We’ve built something truly special for our community and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make this sensory garden a reality.”
www.clwydalyn.co.uk/chirk-court
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