The Carers’ Load Challenge - Pen-Y-Fan Climb

The Carers’ Load Challenge

During Carers Week, Rosie, Courtney and Megan from the Gwent Carers Hub Team will be walking up Pen-y-Fan to raise money for unpaid carers in our local community.

But this is not just a walk.

Each of us will carry an everyday household item as we climb. It might be a shopping bag, a laundry basket, a saucepan, or something else that represents the daily responsibilities many unpaid carers carry quietly, without fuss, and often without recognition.

Because for many carers, the load is not always visible.

Why we’re doing this

Across Gwent, unpaid carers support family members, friends and loved ones every day. They may be helping someone to wash, dress, eat, get to appointments, take medication, manage money, stay safe, or simply get through the day.

Many carers do this while also working, studying, raising children, managing their own health, or trying to keep life ticking over.

The Carers’ Load Challenge is our way of shining a light on that hidden weight.

As we walk the four-mile route up Pen-y-Fan, the items we carry will be a small symbol of something much bigger: the emotional, practical and physical load that unpaid carers carry every single day.

Where your donation will go

Every donation will help us support unpaid carers locally in Gwent.

The money raised could help fund things like:

Wellbeing activities, respite sessions, relaxation opportunities, carer support groups, social activities to reduce isolation, practical resources, and small grants or activities that improve carers’ quality of life.

Final decisions on how the money is spent will be shaped by carers’ needs, their feedback, and the total amount raised.

Why it matters

Unpaid carers are often the people holding everything together behind the scenes.

They are partners, parents, children, siblings, neighbours and friends. Many do not see themselves as “carers” at first. They just say, “I’m doing what anyone would do.”

But the impact can be huge.

Carers can feel tired, isolated, overwhelmed, and unsure where to turn. A bit of support, connection and recognition can make a real difference.

Help make a difference

Please donate whatever you can. Every pound helps us reach more carers and provide support that is practical, meaningful and local.