Stuart's story
Stuart cares for both his 90-year-old mother and his stepson, who has complex needs. He's also a volunteer and participant with Age UK Devon’s Walking Football group in Newton Abbot, which helps him get active regularly while improving his mental health and wellbeing and reducing isolation - something which many carers experience.
Jessica's story
12-year-old Jessica from London, who helps care for her younger brother who has Down's syndrome, shares her story of using local parks to cycle and spend time with her sister. She finds that cycling helps her feel less stressed, and more relaxed and calm.
As well as cycling, Jessica tells us about the online Kindness Club yoga sessions run by Enfield Young Carers which she does home. She loves being active as it helps her meet other young carers and feel less shy.
Jackie’s story
Jackie lives in Staffordshire and cares for her husband who has motor neurone disease. Being active at home is a real boost to her mental and physical health and wellbeing, and as her Pilates class can be done from home, it provides flexibility around her caring role. Pilates also gives Jackie a break from her normal routine and makes her feel stronger and more able to cope with caring.
Mariyam, Rehana and Sheri's story
Bollywood dance provides a great physical activity opportunity for Mariyam, Rehana and Sheri. They share their experiences of being active through the Asian Carers Group at Blackburn with Darwen Carers Service.
The activity and social interaction provides them with an important break from caring and the chance to have some fun! They explain that dancing makes them feel more energetic, fitter, and happier, which helps them a lot when caring for their loved ones.