History of Birmingham Carers' Association

The beginnings of Birmingham Carers Association go back to 1988 when Tessa Jowell, now an MP, and Professor Marion Barnes from Birmingham University were funded to do research into the concerns of carers. This was done by consultation throughout the City and headed by Kate Griffiths, then manager of a Neighbourhood Office and now heading up the Council's User and Carer Involvement Unit. Consultation revealed 17 action points for officers of the city to work with carers on. Two City Centre Forums were set up, one in a morning, and one in the evening for carers who worked or who could not get out during the day because of their caring commitments. Officers of the Council attended these meetings and lots of issues were dealt with successfully. Carers always gave their time for consultations voluntarily and worked hard to develop services for carers.

A service user and carers centre was set up at Milton Grange in Handsworth Wood which continues to be used. In July 2006, the Council opened a Carers Centre, where we are now based, at 130 Colmore Row, right opposite the Council House. From little acorns big things do develop. Carers now have rights and the Council has developed a 5 year Carers strategy and we are involved in its implementation.