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Month: November 2023

Empowering Unsung Heroes: Carers Rights Day 2023

Carers Rights Day, an annual beacon of recognition and advocacy, is set to unfold on Thursday, 23rd November, 2023. This significant initiative, spearheaded by Carers UK, shines a light on the often-overlooked role of unpaid carers who dedicate their time and energy to supporting their loved ones. This year, the focus is on “Your Rights: Today, Tomorrow, and in the Future,” underlining the enduring commitment to understanding and championing the rights of these unsung heroes.

In 2022, Carers Rights Day delved into the theme of “Caring Costs,” revealing the profound financial, physical, and mental toll experienced by family carers. The Carers Trust survey results, unveiled on 29th November, underscored the challenges magnified by the cost-of-living crisis. The day aimed to raise awareness of the struggles faced by carers, making them cognisant of their rights and fostering local support.

Carers UK, a stalwart advocate for carers’ rights, continues its tireless campaigns for improved conditions. From championing flexible working arrangements and healthcare priority to securing discrimination protection and paving the way for the upcoming Carer’s Leave Act in 2024, the organisation takes a comprehensive approach. Carers UK seeks not only recognition but also support and enhanced conditions for carers through continuous advocacy efforts.

Diverse organisations actively engage in Carers Rights Day by organising events, launching social media campaigns, and providing valuable resources to empower carers. These events serve as platforms for unpaid carers to articulate their challenges, contributing suggestions that foster a sense of community and understanding.

Carers, regardless of age, possess rights that encompass a free flu vaccine, discrimination protection, Carer’s Assessment, and hospital discharge consultation. These rights are pivotal for ensuring the well-being of carers and the quality of care they provide to their loved ones. Even those unable to attend events can contribute through online forms or by contacting relevant organisations for information.

Research by Carers UK indicates that many carers miss out on support due to delayed recognition of their role, impacting their health and finances. Encouragingly, there is a positive trend with a 10% increase in first-year recognition, showcasing the tangible impact of awareness campaigns. Carers UK aims to reach and inform 6.5 million UK carers about their rights and available support, ensuring that caregivers are not alone in their journey.

Carers Rights Day 2023 stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to recognise, support, and empower unpaid carers. The collaborative initiatives, diverse themes, and unwavering commitment of organisations like Carers UK showcase a collective determination to improve the lives of those who silently contribute to the well-being of their loved ones. As we mark this day, let us not only acknowledge the rights of carers but also strive to create a society that values and supports these unsung heroes, today, tomorrow, and in the future.

Empowering People on World Diabetes Day

Empowering People on World Diabetes Day

Every 14th November is World Diabetes Day. This day raises awareness about diabetes, its impact on health, and the measures we can take to manage it. We want to highlight the value of preventive measures and high-quality education. Here, we explore key facts about diabetes and the role of training for care staff.

 

Diabetes is a global health concern with staggering statistics that demand our attention. Diabetes is also a major cause of several severe health issues, including blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke, and lower limb amputation. It increases the risk of tuberculosis, mental health issues, and vulnerability to diseases such as COVID-19.

 

Around 90% of people with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes (Diabetes UK). Type 2 diabetes is often preventable through a healthy diet, regular exercise and avoiding tobacco.

 

This year, the number of people living with diabetes in the UK surpassed 5 million (Diabetes UK). The increase in cases is likely due to an increase in risk factors. 25.9% of adults in the UK were obese in 2022, increasing from 25.2% in 2021 (UK Government).

 

As an accreditation body, we want to stress the value of high-quality training for care staff. Proper education will enable staff to manage diabetes in service users and help prevent further health issues from developing. Through our Diabetes and Insulin Administration courses, we aim to:

 

Enhance prevention and early diagnosis by educating professionals on risk factors and symptoms.

 

Ensure the availability and proper administration of essential diabetes medicines, including insulin.

 

To become an accredited training centre and deliver diabetes training, please contact Advantage Accreditation. Together, we can work towards halting the rise of diabetes and ensuring a healthier future for all.