Why a European Carers Day

The idea is to coordinate and foster national efforts to raise awareness of carers’ issues under a pan-European structure. We will therefore be able to capitalise on existing actions and enable/facilitate new initiatives among less-advanced parts of Europe.

European Carers Day is celebrated every year on the 6th of October.

Why do we need to celebrate informal carers as key partners in long-term care?

Recognition and celebration

The theme focuses on celebrating and recognizing the invaluable contributions of informal carers. It emphasizes the essential role these individuals play in supporting their loved ones. Acknowledging their efforts is a meaningful way towards recognition and appreciation.

Partnership and Collaboration

By highlighting carers as “partners in care,” the theme emphasizes the collaborative aspect of caregiving. It underscores the importance of partnerships between carers, care recipients, healthcare professionals and the wider community.

Awareness raising

Long-Term Care is a critical aspect of healthcare that often involves complex challenges over long periods. The chosen theme provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the specific needs, struggles and achievements of carers in the context of LTC. It can lead to increased public understanding and support for policies that facilitate better caregiving conditions.

Key messages

Recognize the value of informal carers

Informal carers are the backbone of our long-term care system, providing essential support and love to their family members and friends. It’s time we recognize and celebrate their invaluable contributions.

Promote equal partnership in care

Care is a collective responsibility. By acknowledging informal carers as equal partners in care, we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for both carers and care recipients.

Support and empower informal carers

Informal carers need support to continue their vital work. Access to resources, financial assistance and training can empower carers and improve the quality of care they provide.

Raise awareness of carers' challenges

Caring for a loved one is both rewarding and challenging. By raising awareness of the struggles informal carers face, we can advocate for policies and services that better meet their needs.

Foster community and solidarity

Let’s build a community that values and supports informal carers. Through collaboration and shared stories, we can foster a sense of solidarity and appreciation for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.

Policy asks

Advocate for policy changes and engage with policymakers, legislators, and government agencies to raise awareness of carer issues and advocate for meaningful solutions.

Support for informal carers

Advocate for policies that recognize and support the valuable role of family carers in providing care to their loved ones. This could include measures such as carer respite programs, financial assistance for carers, and access to training and support services.

Increased funding for long-term care systems

Advocate for better public funding to support the provision of high-quality long-term care services, including home care, residential care, and community-based services. Lobby policymakers to allocate additional resources to long-term care programs and initiatives.

Integrated care

Advocate for the integration of health and social care systems to ensure seamless and coordinated care centred around individual needs for individuals with long-term care needs. Promote collaborative care models, care coordination initiatives and interdisciplinary team approaches to caregiving.

Support for informal carers organisations

Advocate for policies that support and strengthen informal care organisations, including peer support programs, carer training and education initiatives and the provision of respite care services. Partner with community organisations and healthcare providers to develop and implement support programs for carers.

Awareness messages

Informal carers are the backbone of long-term care. Recognise their invaluable role and support them as equal partners in delivering quality care.

True care happens when formal and informal carers work together. Let's bridge the gap and create a stronger, more supportive care system for all.

Every informal carer deserves recognition, respect and resources. Acknowledge them as key partners in the care journey, ensuring no one is left behind.

Hashtags

#CarersDay_EU

#PartnersInCare

#FairDeal4Carers

Proposed social media messages

From policy makers

On #CarersDay_EU, I stand with informal carers who are the backbone of our care systems. Let’s ensure they receive the recognition, support and rights they deserve as essential #PartnersInCare. It’s time for a #FairDeal4Carers!

From policy makers

Today on #CarersDay_EU, let’s commit to real change for informal carers across Europe. They are essential #PartnersInCare and it’s time for policies that recognise their contributions and protect their rights. Together, we can achieve a #FairDeal4Carers.

From policy makers

Informal carers deserve to be part of the care team, with financial support and social rights. This #CarersDay_EU, I support their call for better recognition, protection and opportunities. Let’s build a future that values every carer. #FairDeal4Carers #PartnersInCare

Targeting policy makers

It’s #CarersDay_EU! Let’s recognise informal carers as equal partners in care. They need financial support, enforceable social rights & a voice in shaping care policies. Time for a #FairDeal4Carers! #PartnersInCare #CarePolicy #HealthEquity

Targeting policy makers

Policy makers – today, we call for carers’ contributions to be recognised in care teams alongside professionals. A truly integrated care system means giving informal carers a seat at the table! #CarersDay_EU #PartnersInCare

Targeting health-related organisations

Health systems must recognise the role of informal carers as vital partners in care. It’s time to ensure carers are supported with skills validation, fair compensation & inclusion in the care process. #CarersDay_EU #PartnersInCare #FairDeal4Carers

Targeting informal carers

Today is your day, carers! You’re not alone in your journey – you are valued, recognised and essential. Thank you for all you do to support loved ones. You are a #PartnerInCare and we stand with you! #CarersDay_EU #FairDeal4Carers #SupportCarers

Targeting the general public

Today on #CarersDay_EU, let’s remember: informal carers provide crucial support to loved ones every day. Let’s celebrate them and push for a #FairDeal4Carers that gives them the recognition and support they deserve! #PartnersInCare #CareForCarers