A LOCAL organisation has agreed a new partnership to launch a network supporting unpaid carers across the UK.
Grace Cares has teamed up with personal hygiene product provider Ontex for the Carer Connect initiative.
At the heart of the new programme will be a nationwide consultation which has seen listening sessions and liaison with organisations.
The scheme is being led by Vicki Marshall who has recently joined Grace Cares in a part-time role which is being part-funded by Ontex.
She said:
“Unpaid carers are often the invisible support holding families and communities together.
“Many don’t even recognise themselves as carers, they’re simply looking after someone they love. But they deserve to be recognised, respected and supported.”
The findings from this consultation are being compiled into a white paper of recommendations – Caring by Love, not by Pay: Stories and solutions from unpaid carers – which will shape the foundation of Carer Connect’s first support offer later this year.
Hannah Montgomery, co-founder of Grace Cares, said:
“Partnering with Ontex has given us the opportunity to truly listen. Carer Connect is about more than resources – it’s about building a movement.
“We want unpaid carers to feel seen, valued, and supported, not left to carry the weight in silence.”
According to figures from Carers UK, there are an estimated 5.7 million unpaid carers in the UK, contributing care worth around £132billion annually.
Michelle Garvey, from Ontex, said:
“Supporting unpaid carers aligns perfectly with our mission to make everyday life easier for people of all generations.
“Grace Cares brings real innovation and compassion to the table – and we’re proud to stand behind a project that’s both practical and impactful.”