13/06/2026
The theme of this year's Carers' Week is community.
There are approximately 5.4 to 7 million unpaid or familial carers in the UK, representing roughly 8% to 13% of the adult population.
As our good friend Katherine Vero reminded us this week, some familial carers don't recognise that they are in that role.
They're just helping out a parent, as far as they're concerned. But, gradually, that helping out becomes all encompassing....
I remember that I didn't think I was a familial carer because I didn't live with my parents. But I was...
Much as you want to support your elderly parents, over time it places pressure on other family commitments, on work, on finances, on peace of mind, your own health...
You cannot cover this, for years, without help. You can't sustain it without boundaries.
At Myfolks, we see you, we can help.
As this year's Carers' Week draws to a close, if your parents are robust and well and into their 70s, that is wonderful ... but it is bound to change, so please, have conversations early about your parents expect to happen, what you can do to help, and where other help will be necessary. How will it be funded?
If you are that parent in your 70s, please take it up with your kids now. Tomorrow isn't promised. Don't leave your kids second guessing your wishes or feeling they must carry this alone. That isn't reasonable or realistic. Get a proper, workable plan in place, that covers the worst case scenarios.