Devon Carers highlights rights of unpaid carers ahead of Carers Rights Day

Unpaid carers across Devon are being encouraged to understand and assert their legal rights as part of Carers Rights Day, an annual event aimed at supporting those who care for loved ones without financial compensation.

Information Fair in Exeter
Devon Carers, a service run by Westbank Community Health and Care, is marking the event with an Information Fair at Exeter Library on Thursday, November 21. The theme, Recognising Your Rights, marks the importance of empowering carers with knowledge about their entitlements.

The event will feature representatives from various organisations, including Citizens Advice Exeter, Healthwatch, South West Water, Parkinson’s UK, Devon Young Carers, and Exeter Dementia Action Alliance. Additionally, Devon Carers’ staff will set up awareness stands in major hospitals across the county to provide guidance.

Carers are entitled to several legal rights, including:

• Unpaid leave from work and the ability to request flexible working.
• A carer’s assessment to identify support needs.
• Free flu vaccinations.
• Recognition as a carer by GP practices.
• Consultation during the hospital discharge process of the person they care for.
• Protection from discrimination or harassment.

Empowering Carers with Knowledge
Andy Hood, Head of Devon Carers, said that many people providing unpaid care for a partner, family member, or friend don’t identify as carers, leaving them unaware of the support available.

“As a carer, knowing your rights empowers you,” Andy said. “This knowledge builds confidence to ask for what you need and to challenge situations when your rights are not being met. Our goal is to help carers recognise their role, understand their rights, and access the support they deserve.”

Challenges Highlighted in Report
A Healthwatch report earlier this year surveyed 240 carers in Devon, shedding light on the struggles faced by unpaid carers:

• Overwhelming Stress: 62% reported being unable to manage their role at times, often due to exhaustion, anxiety, or lack of respite care.
• Work and Finances: 32% had reduced their working hours or quit their jobs, leading to financial strain, social isolation, and a loss of confidence.
• Health Neglect: 45% admitted neglecting their health, citing time constraints, emotional barriers, and difficulties accessing healthcare.
• Safety Concerns: 25% said their mental health or the behavior of the person they care for put their safety at risk.

Call to Action
Devon Carers hopes to welcome many carers to the Information Fair, offering them a chance to learn about their rights, connect with support networks, and explore ways to prioritize their own well-being.

For more information about Devon Carers and Carers Rights Day, visit their website westbank.org.uk | devoncarers.org.uk