☀️ Summer Tips for Unpaid Carers: Stay Cool, Stay Supported
Summer can be a time of sunshine, holidays, and lighter moods—but for unpaid carers, it can also bring a unique set of challenges. From managing health in the heat to navigating disrupted routines, the warmer months require some extra planning.
Here are some top summer tips to help unpaid carers take care of their own wellbeing while continuing to support those they care for.
🌿 1. Prioritise Hydration—for You and the Person You Care For
Why it matters: Dehydration is more common in warmer months and can have serious health implications, especially for older adults or those with certain medical conditions.
Top tips:
Set regular reminders to offer drinks throughout the day.
Use fruit-infused water to encourage better hydration.
Keep water bottles or hydration aids within easy reach.
🧊 2. Keep Your Environment Cool and Comfortable
Why it matters: Some medications and health conditions can affect how people regulate heat.
Top tips:
Use fans, draw curtains during the hottest hours, and ventilate in the evenings.
Dress in light, breathable clothing and use cooling cloths if needed.
Consider applying for help with utility costs if keeping cool raises your electricity bills.
📅 3. Plan Ahead for Disruptions to Services
Why it matters: Summer often means reduced services due to staff holidays—this includes GP surgeries, carers’ support services, and local activities.
Top tips:
Check and write down changes in opening hours or availability.
Pre-order medications to avoid delays.
Use online platforms or helplines that are available 24/7 to fill the gap when services are closed.
🧘 4. Make Space for Yourself
Why it matters: Carer burnout doesn’t take a summer break. You deserve time to rest, reflect, and recharge.
Top tips:
Schedule short daily breaks, even 10 minutes in the garden or a walk around the block.
Use respite services or ask trusted friends/family to help out for an afternoon.
Consider attending local outdoor events or groups for carers—some offer free activities during summer
🎒 5. Create a Summer Routine
Why it matters: When school’s out or other routine services pause, the structure of the day can become overwhelming.
Top tips:
Build a visual or written schedule that includes meals, medication times, and personal time.
Include some fun! Watching a film together, reading outside, or doing a puzzle can bring lightness to the day.
For those caring for children or young people, balance their energy with quiet time activities.
6. Look Out for Local Support
Why it matters: Many communities offer seasonal services, like free transport to parks, community lunches, or cooling centers.
Top tips:
Check your local council website or carers’ center for summer offers or one-off grants.
Follow social media pages of local community groups—they often promote summer wellbeing initiatives.
Don’t be afraid to ask. Many charities have extra support in place during hot weather or holiday periods
💬 7. Stay Connected
Why it matters: Summer can sometimes increase feelings of isolation, especially if others are away or routines change.
Top tips:
Join an online carers’ forum or group chat to stay in touch.
Use a WhatsApp group with family or friends to share updates or ask for support.
Book a call or check-in with your local carers’ service to stay on their radar.
☀️ Final Thought
You are doing an incredible job. Whether you’re managing medication, helping with mobility, or simply being there emotionally—your role is vital. Summer is a time to breathe a little deeper, enjoy longer days, and find moments of rest and joy.
Take care of yourself—because you matter, too.
