Every carer's situation is unique but there are lots of common themes, things that many experience because of their caring role. Some of the carers we've supported have kindly shared their story with us... If you'd like to do the same, please email your story to [email protected] with a photo. Thank you!
Laura (who now works for Action for Carers) was caring for her daughter who has conditions including Autism for years without realising she was a carer. She's now a 'sandwich carer' too, giving her dad additional practical help and support.
Trevor has cared for his wife Linda for over 20 years. He shares some of their wonderful life together, and what caring has been like for him.
Amanda is in her 60s and lives in Surrey. She was formerly, and for a long time, carer for her husband.
Elliot cares for his brother who has autism and talks about how that experience affected his upbringing and who he is now.
Surrey carer Al reflects on caring for his wife, J, who developed Alzheimer's, including tips for other carers, as well as facing the difficult situation of moving to a care home.
Young carer Antony looks after his older brother who is Autistic. He gets a lot from being part of Surrey Young Carers, and from his caring role.
Ashu has been a carer for most of her life. She's now a volunteer for Action for Carers, enjoying supporting others, learning new things, and regaining confidence.
Young carer Marta, who’s 13, looks after her older sister who is autistic and has also had poor mental health.
Rose talks about her experience looking after her son, now in his 30s, who has learning difficulties and autism. She describes the challenges of the role, including her concerns as she and her husband grow older, about her son's future.
Lauren has really struggled to find a balance between caring and studying. Reaching out for help and finding someone she could trust has helped her to turn her situation around and she's doing so well now!
Charlotte lives in Guildford and looks after her mum and brother. As she moved into adulthood she knew she needed her own space to improve family relationships and keep her caring role on track.
Oscar, now in his 20s, has cared for his mum for as long as he can remember. Creativity through gaming is a huge part of his life. Surrey Young Carers (part of Action for Carers) have supported him to help him achieve his goals.
