On 22nd July, members of the Support Team attended the webinar ‘Changing the Story on Unpaid Care’, delivered by Phillipa Williams (Claremont), Rohati Chapman (Carers Trust) and Katy Styles (We Care Campaign).
The webinar explored how the language we use to talk about unpaid care influences public understanding, attitudes and perceptions of caring, as well as the wider changes needed to better support unpaid carers and the people they care for. Rather than focusing solely on the challenges carers face, the session encouraged participants to consider how carefully framed communications can help build greater empathy, understanding and support across society.
Drawing on the latest research and evidence, the presenters introduced practical approaches to reframing conversations about unpaid care. They highlighted how the stories we tell, the words we choose and the messages we share can influence how unpaid care is valued by the public, policymakers and professionals. By shifting the narrative towards shared responsibility and recognising the essential contribution of unpaid carers, organisations can help strengthen awareness and encourage meaningful change.
The webinar also introduced a range of guidance and resources developed by Carers Trust to support organisations and professionals in communicating more effectively about unpaid care. These practical tools are designed for colleagues across the social care sector and beyond, enabling them to develop consistent, impactful messaging that resonates with a wide range of audiences.
For the Support Team at SMA UK, the learning from this session will help inform future communications and engagement with individuals and families across the SMA community. By adopting more thoughtful and inclusive language, the team aims to ensure that unpaid carers feel recognised, understood and valued, while continuing to raise awareness of the vital role they play. The insights gained will also support the team’s wider work in advocating for better understanding and support for carers, contributing to more effective conversations with families, healthcare professionals, partners and the wider public.
Click here to find out more about the support offered at SMA UK
