Priority 6: We will coordinate more campaigning and awareness raising across Warrington to increase respect and recognition for all young carers, young adult and adult carers (and parent carers).

What issue is this priority addressing?

The term ‘carer’ is not well understood by the general population with many people unaware of the distinction between relative and carer or paid and unpaid caring. Young carers and young adult carers can feel embarrassed that they are classed as Carers. There appears to be a general attitude amongst their peers that they are ‘uncool and do not fit it’, many young carers experience bullying. Carer confidence and self-esteem is impacted by public perceptions and stigma associated with the term ‘carer’ needs to be tackled such that being a carer can be discussed openly and carers feel treated with respect.

The Warrington system needs to encourage the wider population to be supportive of carers and for carers to be proud of themselves and to feel respected and valued for the role they play. 

Awareness raising, promotion of carers issues, proactive and positive engagement with media and the creation of annual conferences to provide the carer community with the opportunity to come together and share information and experiences are all important opportunities for increasing the level of understanding and respect in the wider community.

How will this priority be delivered?

• We will create and agree a multi-agency communication plan, endorsed and overseen by the Carers Partnership Board.
• We will create a multi-agency Communication Sub Group, working with representatives from a range of media to deliver the communication plan.

What are the potential measures of success?

• Regular and routine promotion of carers information in the media.
• Annual conferences for all young carers, young adult and adult carers.