Russ Safford, carer from Kettering has cared for his wife, who has severe epilepsy, for over 25 years. He has a long history of campaigning on carers’ issues and through his efforts, has seen positive changes. He talks to Carers UKabout his experience.

Why have you got involved with Carers UK Equal Partners?

From my own experience as a carer of dealing with services, I know that obstacles sometimes prevent your voice being heard.  Whilst we can initiate some changes as individuals, I signed up to Carers UK’s Equal Partners because you're not a lone voice, but part of an organization that can initiate change and raise standards.  Carers UK seeks to support carers to campaign on important issues such as breaks for carers, promoting carers rights and improving services for carers and the people they care for.

Tell us about your campaigning experience - what kind of issues have you got involved in locally?

I've always been involved in campaigning in some form or other.  Having been a carer for nearly 25 years, it's been difficult not to!

I campaigned with my local MP when Work Focused Interviews were introduced at Job Centre Plus offices which threatened to unfairly penalise carers. I'm currently in the process of raising awareness about the new Dental National Health Service legislation and treatment fees.  Carers can be charged for vital dental work which can be costly, even if they are exempt from treatment fees.  This again puts carers at an unfair disadvantage.

Have you seen things change as a result?

One of the major changes I've seen was the Government revoking the Work Focused Interviews. Carers UK were instrumental in changing this policy.  Again, this demonstrates what can happen with a joint effort, - and this is why I think Carers UK is important.

What are the benefits to carers of campaigning and taking action?

To put it simply, raising the standards of services and making various organisations and professionals, even on an individual level, aware of carers’ needs.  While carers’ rights have come a long way I still feel that there’s more to be done.  Carers can initiate changes by being involved in campaigns, by challenging the various services or lack of them and by joining their local carers centre and sign up to Carers UK’s Equal Partners scheme.

What advice would you give other carers who want to raise issues locally/challenge decisions?

Write to the organisation you want to raise issues with.  Most organisations will have a charter of some kind or a complaints procedure.  Obtaining a copy of the charter can often be informative as you can check that they are complying with it and it can also explain their complaints procedure.

If this does not produce a satisfactory conclusion then writing to your MP is another way to have your voice heard, particularly if it concerns Government issues and policy. You may be highlighting an issue that the MP isn’t aware of.

Also writing to the local paper can raise awareness of local issues.  Quite often if an organization is badly run then the last thing they welcome is press publicity.Joining various committees, groups and lobbying your local councillor is another way in which you can get your voice heard.”