Parents providing high levels of care often don’t recognise they are carers
This Carers Week, Carers Oxfordshire is highlighting the vital role of parent carers and encouraging more people to recognise themselves in that role and access the support available to them.
A parent carer is someone looking after a child with a disability, long-term illness or mental health condition, often providing care that goes well beyond what people might think of as “typical” parenting. This can include managing medical care, organising therapies, navigating education and support systems and providing ongoing supervision.
Every family’s situation is different, but many parent carers take on a huge number of responsibilities. That might mean juggling hospital appointments, supporting therapy at home, advocating for their child’s needs, and providing care day and night – all while balancing work, finances and family life.
Despite this, many parents don’t see themselves as carers.
Juliet Cocks, Head of Carers Oxfordshire, said: “Many parents simply see themselves as ‘just being a parent’, but the level of care they’re providing often goes far beyond that. Because of this, people can miss out on the support and help that they’re entitled to.”
Caring can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be challenging and, at times, isolating. Parent carers often talk about the love and pride they feel, alongside exhaustion, financial pressure and the impact on their own wellbeing. Recognising themselves as a carer can be a key step in getting the right support.
There are also important rights that many people aren’t aware of, including:
- The right to a Carer’s Assessment
- Flexible working options
- Carer’s Leave
- Financial support, such as Carer’s Allowance
- A say in decisions about their child’s education and care
Carers Oxfordshire is encouraging people to understand that support is available for them, not just for the person they care for.
Juliet added: “Parent carers can often feel invisible. They carry a huge amount of responsibility every day, and their role isn’t always recognised. It’s important that we shine a light on this so people feel seen, valued and able to seek support.”
There is a range of help available, both locally and nationally, including advice services, peer groups, respite support and online communities. Organisations like Carers Oxfordshire can help people understand what’s available and find support that works for them.
For anyone who may feel alone in their caring role, the message is simple: support is available, and you’re not alone.
Juliet added: “You’re not alone, even if it feels that way. There are thousands of parents in similar situations, and help is available. Recognising yourself as a carer is an important step and reaching out can make a real difference.”
Throughout Carers Week, Carers Oxfordshire will be sharing information and advice for parent carers from our Carers Advisers on our social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn channels, as well as holding information drop-ins across the county.
If you think you might be a parent carer, you can find more information on our Carers Week resource hub for parent carers.