Facts and figures
Around half a million people provide unpaid care for a terminally ill relative or friend in the UK. These carers often have to deal with a complex and unpredictable illness.
This can affect the carer's work and the rest of their life. They also face the emotional strain of knowing that they will eventually be bereaved.
Many carers of the terminally ill are 'thrown in' to their caring role. They may have little time to think about what is involved, and might not have time to find out about or access support.
It is important that professionals proactively support adult carers and young carers (under the age of 18).
Some initiatives
There are a number of initiatives in this area:
Carers project
Help the Hospices' Care for the Carers of the Terminally Ill project ran between 2005 and 2008. The project was funded by the Tubney Charitable Trust and funds raised via the 2005 Flora London Marathon.
The project aimed to:
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develop local services for carers through running grants programmes
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develop information resources for carers and professionals
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share case studies of services supporting carers of the terminally ill
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organise workshops and events for professionals working with carers
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carry out strategic policy work to support carers of the terminally ill
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raise awareness of issues affecting carers of the terminally ill, eg through Carers Week.
View information about work looking at Help the Hospices' future strategy to support carers.
Further information
For more information about our work for carers, please contact us.
If you are a carer you can find information about caring, including legal and money matters, working, nursing and looking after yourself, elsewhere on our website.
