Fort Community Centre, Health and Social Care,Origin and development of the family carers' movement in the United Kingdom in the 20th century

Abstract

The history of the carers' movement in the United Kingdom began in the second half of the 20th century. Demographic, social, and cultural changes in the UK made it necessary to define the role of a family carer in light of the needs of an ageing population. The Carers UK organisation, together with government representatives and researchers, fought for recognition and understanding of the challenges faced by carers, recognition of the rights for carers, as well as adoption and dissemination of the term 'carer' in social awareness. The main purpose of the essay is to show the origin of the family carers' movement in the UK in the 20th century, and the integration process of different entities. The presented information can be an example for other countries facing similar challenges with informal care of those who are dependent due to age or illness.