Helping caring in a pandemic

Local charity Caring Together is providing free and tailored support for people looking after a family member or friend, so they and the person they care for can get to their appointment for the Covid-19 vaccination.

And they are inviting you to walk your walk for carers this March to raise money so that they can continue to provide this and other support to carers during the coronavirus pandemic.

Whether you choose to set yourself a challenge based on the number of steps you walk, the distance you want to cover or the amount of time you spend walking you can raise money to help carers.

People who are most vulnerable are being prioritised for the Covid-19 vaccination, and as the priority categories are worked through people looking after a family member or friend will also then be invited for their own Covid-19 vaccination.

But whether it is the appointment for the person they look after, or for themselves, carers face many challenges in getting to medical appointments. So the free support from Caring Together can make the difference in whether they can go to their appointment or not.

The pandemic has had a devastating effect on carers. For many the only light at the end of the tunnel is receiving their Covid-19 vaccination to give them the confidence that they are able to keep their older, disabled and seriously ill loved ones safe.

We are relieved that carers have been included on the government’s priority lists to receive their vaccination. And with your help, we can help carers to get to their Covid-19

vaccination appointments.

From providing homecare for the person they care for to supporting them with their travel and transport – anything that they need.

We are asking you to walk your walk for carers this March. Whether you are looking to increase your fitness, make the most of your daily exercise or simply want to give purpose to getting out and about: every step you take will help support carers in your local community during the coronavirus crisis.”

Signing up to the challenge is completely free and there is no minimum sponsorship that we ask you to raise to take part. If you pledge to raise £50 you will be sent a Caring Together T-shirt and if you raise £100 they will send you a water bottle to say thank you.

You can find out how to create your walk your walk for carers challenge at caringtogether.org/walkyourwalk or email fundraising@caringtogether.org

If you are looking after a family member or friend and want support getting to your coronavirus vaccination appointment please contact Caring Together on 0345 241 0954 or email hello@caringtogether.org

Caring Together support

carers across Cambridge- shire, Peterborough and Norfolk. They provide information and advice, run services in our local communities and campaign so that carers have choices.

Hannah Crouch Caring Together head of fundraising and engagement