The Write stuff

Tell us about your letter?

I’ve drafted a letter for carers to send to Ministers and MP’s explaining what carers want from the government.  The idea is that carers use the letter as a template in support of each other’s individual needs and circumstances.  They can use is it as it is, add to it, if they disagree with some part, then leave it out or strike it through.

The purpose of carers sending the letter at around the same time is to strengthen the carers message, give it more impact.

How did you get the idea?

I had written to my MP and was disappointed with the reply, so I just put it aside.  I came across it again a couple of weeks later and realised this must happen to a lot of carers.  As individuals they feel ignored, and they give up.  That’s when I thought of having a single letter covering as many points as possible, so that our unified voice could not so easily be ignored.

How did you decide what to put in the letter?

Last summer I joined The Princess Royal Trust for Carers web-site forum.  When you read the many posts on the forum you soon get a real understanding of what tough lives carers have and the difficulties they face.  I began asking the other carers “What do you want?”  Gradually through their replies I came up with points 1-6 in the letter.  The letter states what specific help carers need, and asks the Government to think about how they can pay for it.

How has being a carer affected your life?

I’ve been looking after Mum for 13 years, for the past 6 years she’s lived with us. Caring has had a huge impact on our family life.  I’ve had to give up work, our social life has bitten the dust.  There is this creeping realisation of just how much of your life is slipping away.

How can carers get involved?

The letter is available to copy and print off on carers web-site forums.  There is also a short letter of support for carers to ask their family and friends to sign.  It is essential for supporters to include their name and address.

The letters are scheduled to be sent out (or as close as possible) on the longest day of the year; June 21st. Please send the Carers Letter with the Supporters Letters to Gordon Brown.  To Anne Maguire, and your own MP just send the Carers Letter. 

Do you think it will make a difference?

Yes definitely, I believe that carers working together, and being determined to drive the message home to Ministers and MP’s that carers need far more help will make an impression. (Every carer is a voter as are their family and friends).

You can find Cheryl’s letter and join the discussion on these forums

• Carers UK  www.carersuk.org/Forums
• Princess Royal Trust for Carers  www.carers.org/forums
• Carers United:  www.carersunited.myfineforum.org
• Chill4:  www.chill4us.com