Carers Rights Day 2024 will take place on Thursday 21 November, with this year’s theme set as: ‘Recognising Your Rights’. Every day, around 12,000 individuals become unpaid carers for a partner, family member, or friend. Many of these new carers do not identify themselves as such and so may not be aware of their legal rights or the support available to them.

This year's focus is on empowering carers by raising awareness of their rights. Understanding these rights is crucial for carers, as it equips them with the knowledge to seek support, assert their needs and challenge situations where those rights are not being upheld.  Feeling informed and confident can make a significant difference in the workplace, educational settings, health and social care services, or during interactions with other professionals.

This year, the campaign aims to ensure that every carer knows what they are entitled to, fostering a sense of confidence in their role. It encourages all carers to engage with the resources and support available, and to take the time to understand their rights. By doing so, they can not only improve their own circumstances but also advocate for others in similar situations.

How to get involved

In 2023, hundreds of organisations hosted events and activities to mark Carers’ Rights Day. Whether you’ve participated in the past or are getting involved for the first time - online or in person – join the 2024 campaign to ensure that carers receive the crucial information and support they need.

You don’t need to be an expert to assist a carer in learning about their rights. Often, simply directing someone to the appropriate resources for help and advice can have a significant impact. Head to https://www.carersuk.org/ to find more resources and support services.

Other ways to get involved include:

• Post on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok or Threads

You can use social media to promote Carers Rights Day and raise awareness of the impact of caring using our hashtag: #CarersRightsDay. You could include a link to the latest edition of our Looking after someone guide.

• Create an information display board

You can create an information stand at your workplace, whether it's a business, health service or education provider.

• Write a letter or send an email

You can contact your MP/AM/MSP/MLA/councillor about the importance of identifying those looking after a loved one and informing them about their rights.

• Write a newspaper article

Send a letter or write an article for your local paper about the importance of knowing your rights and entitlements as a carer.

• Signpost working carers

In your workplace newsletter you can signpost working carers to information and advice. Around one in seven workers in the UK has caring responsibilities. Include a link to our website, or our guide to caring, Looking after someone, so colleagues with caring responsibilities can find out about what help is available.