Susan, a full-time carer for her husband, talks to NLCT about her experience of trying to access a short break. She shares difficulties accessing respite for her husband and goes on to share her thoughts on how systems could much better cater to carers’ needs when accessing breaks from their caring roles. From a holistic and more centralised service to ensuring choice and control are at the heart of what is offered to carers, this episode delves into the realities facing carers today. Launched as part of NLCT’s consultation on short breaks, this pod provides food for thought for policy makers and carers wishing to influence policy alike.

Motherwell based GP, Dr Porte, from Modyrvale Medical Centre speaks to our team member Angela in our second episode. They discuss the current issues facing carers including the cost of living crisis, its impacts on mental health and the immediate need for caring to be being ‘visible, valued and supported’. This frontline GP insight into supporting carers in a practice setting and working with local, community organisations like NLCT, also touches on the importance of time to talk with carers about their caring role, and why recognising the emotional impacts of that role and validating carers’ experiences is key to providing support.

Still Game’s Jane McCarry teams up with Alan and Tracy at North Lanarkshire Carers Together to raise awareness of life as an unpaid carer.  In this inaugural episode, Still Game’s Isa (actor Jane McCarry) shares her own experience as an unpaid carer. During a heartfelt discussion, Jane describes the difficulties faced by people caring for loved ones, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.