Rotherham Council is supporting Carers Week 2025 – a campaign that recognises and celebrates the vital role of carers.
Taking place from Monday 9 June to Sunday 15 June, Carers Week highlights the invaluable contributions of those who care, often unpaid, for a friend or family member who cannot manage without their support. This may be due to illness, disability, mental health challenges, or addiction, all of which can leave individuals heavily reliant on the care of others.
There are around 26,313 unpaid carers in Rotherham - many not realising the help they provide qualifies them as carers or that they can access support.
To raise awareness and show appreciation, the Borough That Cares network, which includes the Council and carer support organisations will be hosting events throughout the week aimed at recognising and celebrating carers.
Cllr Joanna Baker-Rogers, Cabinet member for Adult Care and Health, said: “We are proud to support Carers Week 2025 and stand behind this year’s theme, ‘Caring About Equality’. Carers play a critical role in the health and wellbeing of many of our residents, offering not just practical support but also love and understanding.
“Many carers are responsible for individuals with complex needs while also managing jobs, families, households, or education. That’s why it’s so important they can access the support available to help maintain their own wellbeing.
“Often, carers are unpaid or don’t realise that what they do qualifies as caring. Through this week, we hope to highlight their contributions and ensure they feel seen, valued, and supported.”
There is a wide range of support available for carers in Rotherham including emergency planning, financial help, respite care, and training. They can also access a Carers newsletter, a Carers directory with information about support and advice and connect with others through the support services available.
Throughout the week, the Council will be sharing carers' stories, offering insight into what being a carer means to them.
Joanne McCreath, a carer in Rotherham, said, "I think it’s especially important to recognise carers. We have a lot of people who are unable to live their lives to the full capacity that they can [without a carer's support], and I think carers need to recognise how important they are to those people.”
On the importance of supporting young carers and those caring for children in need, Cllr Victoria Cusworth, Cabinet member for Children and Young People, added: “Carers Week gives us the opportunity to celebrate our wonderful carers and make sure those who care for a loved one or someone in their community get the recognition they deserve.
“Many young carers, who are often children and young people caring for a parent or relative with complex needs, are balancing school, friendships, and their own development while providing essential care at home. It is important that we recognise these carers and ensure they receive the support they need.”
For more information and support for carers in Rotherham, visit: www.rotherham.gov.uk/carers
