Family Carers Highlight Challenges During Festive Season

A woman who provides care for two family members has stated that “Christmas is not a day off” for individuals in her situation. Jordan Till, 27, from Cambridgeshire, has served as the sole caregiver for her mother since she was approximately four years old and has recently assumed care responsibilities for her aunt. She explained that while she endeavors to make their lives as comfortable as possible, the Christmas period can be difficult, both emotionally and financially. Zoe Bunter, representing Caring Together in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, and Norfolk, suggested that simply asking carers the “very simple question” of “how are you” or “can I help” could significantly improve their experience. Ms. Till received a BBC Make a Difference award in September, having been nominated by her mother and aunt, who expressed that they “did not know where they would be without her.” Although Ms. Till affirmed she “wouldn’t have it any other way,” she noted that being a young carer can be “isolating” when peers her age do not comprehend her responsibilities. She recounted, “When I was younger I was a little bit worried about sharing what I was going through.” Ms. Till added, “I’m sure there were others going through the same thing, but it’s sometimes hard to talk about.” She further reflected, “As I’ve got older, I’ve realised there’s no need for that… not everything looks like a typical person’s success.” The family celebrates Christmas together, often gathered in the living room; however, the holiday does not provide a break from caregiving. Ms. Till stated, “We try and concentrate on making it a happy time and keeping everyone’s spirits up.” She also mentioned, “I wasn’t getting paid [for caring] until very recently.” Elaborating on the financial aspect, she said, “Obviously I want to provide the best, give them loads of presents, make sure we have a nice meal… it’s more money when you’re already kind of living so close to the breadline.” Ms. Bunter, who holds the position of head of fundraising and communications at Caring Together, indicated that the youngest carer they support is four years old, while the oldest is over 100. She commented, “Nobody plans to become a carer, it’s something that happens to you.” She further observed, “One of the things that really hit me was you sort of lose your identity… you almost get a little bit forgotten.” The charity aims to prevent carers from experiencing crisis or isolation, noting that Christmas can be a particularly challenging time. Changes in routine, unfamiliar noises, or festive decorations within a home can cause disorientation and make life “that much more challenging.” Additional difficulties cited include the closure of pharmacies and other support services, increased electricity costs, and the pressure to purchase gifts. Ms. Bunter also remarked, “For young carers Christmas can also be a time where they perhaps feel they’re missing out more than usual and feel their life is quite different from their friends.” She elaborated, “When they’re out of school and at home and with family for longer periods of time, they can feel that difference a lot more so it can be quite a hard time.” For news updates from the East of England, follow BBC Beds, Herts & Bucks, BBC Cambridgeshire, BBC Essex, BBC Norfolk, BBC Northamptonshire, or BBC Suffolk on X, Instagram, and Facebook. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available for review.