Karolina Gerlich, CEO, The Care Workers’ Charity
The Care Workers’ Charity proudly presents “Professional Care Workers’ Week 2023,” a celebration of those who care for others. This event marks the sixth consecutive year of the initiative. It aims to shed light on the invaluable contributions made by care workers while advocating for their recognition as skilled professionals.
Even though our primary mission is that of a benevolent fund, we also do a lot of campaigning. We actively campaign for care workers’ rights, striving to improve their working conditions and social standing. Through a multifaceted approach, we demand better funding for the care sector and urge fairer wages for care workers as a national expectation.
Society has often erroneously perceived care workers’ skills as “soft skills,” underestimating the complexity and depth required for this profession. However, as a former care worker, I know first-hand that compassion, empathy and patience are just as important as the clinical and organisational skills that care workers possess. It takes a nuanced blend of all these attributes to excel in the caregiving field and provide top-quality support to those who draw on social care.
Recognising the significance of care workers’ dedication and competence, The Care Workers’ Charity believes that care workers deserve a dedicated celebration every year, just like any other profession dedicated to the service of others. With a heartfelt understanding of their efforts and struggles, we strive to raise awareness and appreciation for their vital role and contribution to society.
From the 18th to the 22nd of September, we will host an engaging and informative program of panels and sessions. The sessions will be delivered by care workers and care managers, along with influential figures from the Adult Social Care sector. Thanks to the virtual format, these talks will be accessible to attendees from anywhere across the UK, and participation is entirely free.
We encourage everyone, both within and outside the sector, to actively take part in the event. Every effort counts, whether by attending the talks, raising funds, or hosting individual celebrations to honour their colleagues. On Thursday, we are asking people to host Afternoon Tea for CWC. This can be a virtual meetup with your friends or colleagues over a cup of tea or a big tea party in your care home, home care office, or other care services. And you can join the all-day walk along the South Downs on Friday. The funds raised during these activities will directly support care workers, providing crisis grants and counselling services to those facing difficult times.
To learn more about Professional Care Workers’ Week 2023 and join in the celebration, visit the official website of The Care Workers’ Charity at https://www.thecareworkerscharity.org.uk/professional-care-workers-week-2023-2/.
Let’s make Professional Care Workers’ Week 2023 a memorable event highlighting the skills of care workers and their indispensable role in our society.