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A mental health charity is calling for increased support and recognition for the estimated 5,000 unpaid carers on the island ahead of Carers Week.
The week-long campaign, running from 10-16 June, aims to raise awareness and understanding of the vital role carers play and the challenges they face.
Local charity Mind Jersey has invited carers to attend a weekly support group that addresses the stigma surrounding mental illness and the lack of understanding about caring responsibilities.
The charity said that there are likely over 5,000 islanders providing regular unpaid care for loved ones, although the exact number is unknown
Pictured: Carers Week, a UK-wide awareness campaign running from 10-16 June, aims to increase visibility for carers.
Carers in Jersey come from various backgrounds, including pensioners, young people, and those balancing employment with their caregiving duties.
The rising cost of living further compounds these difficulties for carers who are unable to work due to their responsibilities.
Mind Jersey estimates that the hidden costs of unpaid caregiving can amount to £118,300 annually – with the hourly cost of a professional carer in Jersey ranging from £26 to £35 in 2023, and expected to exceed £40 this year.
Joanne Newton, Adult Family and Carer Development Worker at Mind Jersey, highlighted that Jersey is one of the few places where carers lack legal protection.
Carers Jersey, a partnership of charitable organisations and unpaid carers, has been campaigning for carers' legislation since 2017.
A 2022 survey by the group emphasised the need for carers to be heard and have access to respite.
#CarersWeek is next week and were so excited to be putting carers on the map along with so many amazing, organisations, carers, and charities.
— Carers Week (@carersweek) June 3, 2024
Find out more about how you can get involved here: https://t.co/bevv1znodw pic.twitter.com/EVqGvvsQrz
During a meeting with the Health Scrutiny Panel on Thursday, Mental Health Director Andy Weir announced that two carer support workers had been recruited to the Health Department.
He also mentioned that a pilot scheme is underway to identify carers' needs, ensure access to appropriate support, and identify unmet needs.
The findings from this 'carers assessment' pilot will be incorporated into the mental health strategy, set to be completed by the end of the year.
Mind Jersey offers support for carers, including a carers support group every second Tuesday, one-to-one support, and a weekly coffee and chat session.
Carers Jersey can be contacted at contact@carersjersey.je for further information and assistance.
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