Good Care Month: Why carers are essential to the community

July is officially Good Care Month, which means it’s a time to celebrate the professionals working across the social care sector. It’s not an easy role, but it’s incredibly rewarding, and this is a time to recognise their achievements and hard work.  

The campaign started in Hertfordshire, and aims to show care as an essential and important career path. Our sector is facing chronic staff shortages globally, so advocacy for our employees is so important in showing people the value of care, and the respect we have for the profession.  

We all need to show carers the support they show to their clients.  

Why is care important?

Our society wouldn’t be functional without carers. They are the backbone of communities, especially those with higher numbers of vulnerable people, and those who are less able to meet their own needs. The current care system is under-prepared for the UK’s aging population – the population aged 85+ is growing the fastest, making it so important to have enough carers to meet these growing needs. Carers help these individuals, as well as any other vulnerable people, to live independent, fulfilling lives, giving them confidence and purpose.  

Having social support is also a surefire way to strengthen community, allowing people to build trust with those around them and reduce isolation.  

What do carers do to help?

Carers wear lots of different hats, and no two days are the same. For some clients, this can mean meal preparation and cooking, domestic chores, and help with appointments. But personalised care means adapting your skill set to each client – for example, one of our carers regularly blow dries her client’s hair. 

And of course, all of our carers offer companionship, so clients can always have someone on hand for days out. This month is dedicated to showcasing this and helping others understand that caring is a multi-skilled profession, making it all the more meaningful.  

How can we show support for the sector?

This month, and every month, we should be supporting carers and showcasing their hard work. Celebrating success can come in many different ways, whether that’s through companies or individuals. Last year, we were finalists at the KiCA (Kent Integrated Care Alliance) Awards, and we were so proud of our team for being recognised for our high-quality care services.  

We believe showing this employee advocacy is essential in keeping people in the care sector. Good Care Month highlights how recruitment and retention are struggling in care, a lot of it stemming from stereotypes or misconceptions. We want to do everything we can to show our employees they’re supported and valued, whether this is through extensive training or career progression opportunities.  

And sometimes, it’s the little things that matter most. Recently, our carer Sandra was given a lovely card, flowers, and chocolates from one of her clients, which offered a wonderful moment of appreciation. It’s not something we’d ever expect from clients, but those shared moments of kindness are so valued.  

And if you’re a carer yourself, you need to practice self-gratitude, and appreciation for your own hard work. Give yourself a pat on the back, and leave some time for self-care. 

Good Care Month is here to shine a spotlight, and we need to help the campaign by championing our employees, sharing stories, and expressing appreciation for those in the sector. It’s a time for changing perceptions and sending a clear message: care is important, and carers are essential.  

If you’re looking for care for you or a loved one, please get in touch.