Stories from local carers
Three in five of us will become carers at some point in our lives. Looking after a friend or someone in your family can be rewarding but it can also be difficult, lonely and, at times, overwhelming.
Read how providing unpaid care is affecting the lives of people living in Richmond.
Amy’s story
"Caregiving is a life lived on a tightrope, balancing love and care while your own health, happiness and identity have to go on hold."
Gemma’s story
"Being a carer means you stop seeing yourself as a separate person to the person you are caring for. Everything you do has to work around them."
Jamal’s story
"I’m the oldest of three siblings and I help care for my mum. She relies on me a lot, especially when she’s too tired to do things."
Penny’s story
"In the beginning, I struggled to let anyone else care for my son. I felt like if I needed help, it meant I wasn’t coping, and that was hard to accept."
Rosamund’s story
"As time passed, I realised how isolating caring for Michael was. Lots of activities were for much older people and I felt like I didn’t belong."
Zahra’s story
"My brother’s behaviour can be challenging and it can feel overwhelming. I love my brother, but it’s a lot of responsibility."