Carers UK is delighted to announce that it has been chosen by the Telegraph as one of the charities it is supporting through its 2020 Charity Christmas Appeal.
From today, 7th November, through to January 2021 the charity will be working closely with the Telegraph to raise awareness of caring and the challenges faced by unpaid carers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The campaign will help draw attention to the issues affecting many of the 13.6 million people in the UK currently caring for a loved one, as well as the significant impact COVID -19 has had on carers health, wellbeing, relationships and finances.
Research carried out by Carers UK this year found 81% of unpaid carers with significant caring responsibilities are providing even more care for loved ones than before the pandemic, with 64% having been unable to take any breaks whatsoever since the first national lockdown. Two thirds are worried about how they will continue to manage over winter.
The charity also hopes to help many thousands of people who do not currently identify as a carer better recognise their caring role so that they can get the practical and emotional support they need.
Carers UK hopes to use the money raised through the Telegraph’s Christmas Appeal to extend its support services for carers, including its helpline which has seen a huge surge in demand since the pandemic started, and to train volunteers to support carers who are struggling to manage at the moment.
Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK said:
“We are thrilled to be working with the Telegraph to shine a spotlight on carers’ experiences through this pandemic. 2020 has been a hugely challenging year for unpaid carers, with many providing round the clock care without the usual support they need from formal services – or even family and friends.
“We hope our collaboration will help the wider public understand the issues faced by carers, and help those with caring responsibilities better identify their caring role and find support.
“We urge everyone to donate what they can – big or small - so that we can continue to provide crucial support for unpaid carers who are struggling through this crisis.”
Paul Davies, the Telegraph’s charity appeal co-ordinator, said:
“Over several decades, the Telegraph’s Christmas Charity Appeal has raised millions of pounds for dozens of amazing charities. However, this year’s appeal might be the most important fundraiser we have ever organised, as we shine a light on those families and individuals who have been hit the hardest by the pandemic.
“Our charity partners have all seen a sharp increase in demand for their services this year, while simultaneously trying to cope with a drop in funding.
“We’ll be telling dozens of powerful, moving and inspiring stories to highlight the essential support these charities have provided this year, and we’re sure our readers will once again dig deep, to allow this incredible work to continue.”
Carers UK is one of four charities that has been selected for the Telegraph’s Christmas Appeal this year.