Unpaid carers and organisations collectively achieved thousands of hours of activity as a community during the first ever Carers Active Together day which took place across the UK this week.
From online yoga and Zumba to table tennis and local walks, carers were encouraged to get active through a wide variety of opportunities, with leisure centres also offering special offers and dedicated events. This helped unpaid carers in every nation in the UK to accept the challenge on 15th April to go further and explore new and favourite physical activities in their areas- in person- or online to mark the day.
This was part of the ongoing Carers Active programme, led by Carers UK and funded by Sport England through the National Lottery.
One highlight included a special free, guided walk arranged for the day in Hyde Park. London carers enjoyed the benefits of coming together to move and chat in fresh air, surrounded by nature.
Many who are caring for a family member, friend or neighbour who is ill, older or disabled find it harder to be physically active than those who don’t have caring responsibilities, because of a lack of breaks, time and opportunities due to the demands on them.
Carers who are physically active, no matter how much they can do, say that it significantly improves their health and wellbeing, that it helps them feel more positive in daily life, and boosts their self-esteem. Being active and doing some form of exercise, particularly with others, can help reduce stress, feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Patrick and his wife care for their 19-year-old daughter who has severe disabilities. They signed up to try badminton at a local sports centre as part of Carers Active Together.
Patrick said:
“I find being active really helps. I’ve realised for a long time now that you can’t care for someone else as well as possible if you’re not looking after yourself. Time to re-charge your batteries is a key part of this. It is a bit of a re-set and improves your mood.”
Carers Active, supported by Sport England, is an ongoing programme that aims to improve the physical and mental health of unpaid carers through physical activity.
Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK said:
“We’re delighted that so many unpaid carers took part in the first Carers Active Together day, experiencing the enjoyment and benefits of physical movement and community. We want to make it as easy as possible to be able to exercise. Nearly half (42%) of carers have told us that their physical health has suffered as a result of caring. We are working with Sport England to change this and want to make it easier for more unpaid carers to get active and feel better in a way that works for them.”
Tom Burton, Strategic Lead for Health & Wellbeing Policy at Sport England, said:
“Carers Active Together has shown the power of bringing people together through movement. Too many carers face barriers to physical activity, so it’s inspiring to see such strong participation. We’re proud to support Carers UK to help carers feel healthier, more connected and able to enjoy the benefits of being active.”
Visit the Carers Active hub here
