Carers Rights’ Day call for more men in Slough to get support

The town’s unpaid male carers are being urged to follow the example of women by getting the emotional and financial support they’re entitled to. 

Slough Carers Support made the plea on Carers Rights’ Day, on 25 November, as carers, those they care for, and organisations that provide free support services, gathered at Britwell Community Cafe. 
 
The theme for Carers Rights’ Day 2021 is “Carers have the right to...”, which includes the right to discuss flexible working options with their employer, protection from discrimination, to be identified as a carer and to receive a carer’s assessment. 
 
Slough Carers Support, the independent advice service, can help on these fronts and more, but the people signing up for its help are overwhelmingly female.
 
Kinder Bassi, Slough Carers Support manager, said: “Men, especially those who are part of a multigenerational household, believe it’s their duty to care for a loved one and don’t see themselves as carers. 
 
“It means they are less likely to come forward and ask for help, and they end up struggling.” 
 
Slough Carers Support is run by Slough CVS, a voluntary sector partner of Slough Borough Council. 
 
Kinder added: “We’d like to bridge this gap, but of course anyone should come forward regardless of their gender if they need support. We’re here for everyone.”
 
Carers can sign up to the organisation’s monthly newsletter, and receive its support for free.
 
They can also get exclusive offers with the Slough Carers’ Discount Card, including money off leisure and sport activities.
 
On the day, 10 organisations that offer support services for carers across the borough attended the Community Cafe, hosting stands and giving out information to carers and their families. 
 
They included Special Voices, Cippenham Carers, Alzheimers & Dementia Support, and Slough Libraries and Cultural Services.  
 
The event was opened by the Mayor of Slough, Cllr Mohammed Nazir, who said: “It’s so lovely to see all the different carers’ groups here today.
 
“I don’t have to explain what a carer is…there are hundreds and thousands of you doing unpaid work in the community.”
 
Tom Conlin, for Slough CVS, paid tribute to carers, saying: “You are, I’m sure, so important to the people you care for.
 
“So make sure you take good care of yourselves, too.” 

Published: 30 November 2021