Men Care Too – supporting unpaid male carers in Bradford district

The ‘Men Care Too’ project has been launched to improve the wellbeing of male carers, giving them the chance to take part in fun activities, meet other male carers, chat, relax and support each other.

More than 40 per cent of unpaid carers are male, providing physical and emotional support for a loved one. However many men find it difficult to express their needs and ask for help for themselves.

The Men Care Too project is planning a range of groups and events, including walks, meals, music and sport groups, fishing, gardening and cycling.

Groups are being set up online, and in Bradford and Harrogate districts, with plans for activities in the Craven district too.

'Here to support you'

Mohammed Mahboob, Male Carers Development Officer at Carers’ Resource, said: “We know men don’t always find it easy to join general carer groups, so we’ve developed these activities by talking to male carers and planning trips and events that they will enjoy.

“Many men may not even recognise themselves as a carer, but if you are looking after a friend or family member who needs your support due to illness, frailty, disability, mental health issues or addiction, then you are a carer and we are here to offer support to you.

“Caring for a loved one can have a huge impact on your own health and wellbeing, as well as having an impact on other areas of your life such as employment, education, finance and relationships.

“If you are an unpaid male carer in Bradford, Harrogate or Craven districts, we would urge you to get in touch with us. If you have ideas about activities we could put on for you, we’re here to listen. We would also like to hear from any existing groups that would like to help support male carers.

To join the ‘Men Care Too’ project at Carers’ Resource, or for more information, call 0808 50 15 939, or email mencare2@carersresource.org.