Spotlight on Leicester – Supporting Unpaid Carers with Age UK

This episode of Spotlight on Leicester features Dave Bushby from Age UK’s Carers Support Service. The discussion explores the realities of unpaid carers in Leicester, the support available through groups, trips, and activities, and the importance of carers’ health and well-being. Dave highlights the role of community connections, GP referrals, and social prescribing, as well as the challenges of funding and recognition. The conversation shows why carers’ contributions matter and how services help them feel supported and valued.

In this episode of Spotlight on Leicester, John Coster and Rob Watson are joined by Dave Bushby, Team Manager of the Carers Support Service at Age UK Leicester. The conversation highlights the often unseen role of unpaid carers across the city and the ways they are supported to maintain their own well-being.

Dave explains how many people do not immediately recognise themselves as carers, even though they may be looking after a family member, neighbour, or friend. The service, based at Clarence House in Leicester, provides advice, one-to-one and group support, day trips, walking groups, and arts and crafts sessions. These activities offer respite and connection for people whose own health and well-being are vital if they are to continue supporting others.

The discussion also looks at how carers link with GPs, social prescribers, and wider community networks. While funding is always a challenge, the service is commissioned by Leicester City Council and works closely with other organisations to ensure carers are not overlooked. As Dave notes, national events such as Carers Week or Carers Rights Day help to shine a spotlight on the contribution carers make, but everyday recognition remains essential.

Dave also reflects on his own career in health and social care, and why he values the opportunity to work with carers directly. The podcast underlines that behind the statistics are real people whose lives are shaped by giving time and energy to others. Supporting them is not only about compassion but also about sustaining the wider system of care on which communities depend.

You can listen to the full conversation on the Soar Sound website and find out more about the Carers Support Service by visiting Clarence House or contacting Age UK Leicester.