Carers stories

Here are a selection of personal stories of people sharing their experiences of looking after a loved-one. These carers receive support from our Network of Carers’ Centres across the UK:

"I felt invisible" Karon has been caring for her mother for seven years. Her mother suffers from Alzheimer’s, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.

"At school it's sometimes hard to concentrate" Jodie is a 14 year old young carer who looks after her brother Rocky who is 8. Rocky suffers from a very rare genetic condition called Peters Plus Syndrome.

"No-one knows what a carer is" Ronnie, 61, has cared for his wife for over 15 years. With MS and osteoarthritis in her spine, Ann needs 24 hour care.

"It's harder as you get older" Joan, 75, cares for her daughter Joanne who is 41. Joanne was born with physical and learning disabilities as a result of German measles during pregnancy. Joan’s husband is 82 and has had a stroke.

"I became a carer overnight" Vicky has been a parent/carer for her son Paul who has cerebral palsy for 31 years and for her 24 year old son Daniel who has severe ADHD with related social, emotional and behavioural problems.

"Fighting for her daughter" Anne cares for her 16 year old daughter, Paula, who has Deletion Syndrome.

"Overcoming loss" Ray cared for his wife Mary, who suffered from multiple sclerosis, until her death earlier this year.

The Princess Royal Trust for Carers offers access to carers who are happy to share their stories with the media. Please email Sarah Ross or call 020 8498 7920