Celebrating Male Unpaid Carers on International Men’s Day
Birmingham Men’s Carer Group
This International Men’s Day, we’re shining a light on the millions of men who provide unpaid care for family members, friends and loved ones, recognising their contribution and encouraging more men to access the support they deserve.
Caring is often seen as a role undertaken by women. While women make up the majority of unpaid Carers, the number of men providing care may surprise you.
According to the 2021 Census, around 2 million men in England and Wales provide unpaid care1, representing approximately 41% of all unpaid Carers 2.
Yet many men don’t recognise themselves as Carers. They simply see what they do as part of being a husband, partner, son, brother, uncle, nephew or friend.
But if someone relies on you for support with everyday life because of an illness, disability, mental health condition or age-related needs, you may be an unpaid Carer – and there is support available for you too.
Breaking Down Barriers: Why Male Carers Need Support
Caring can be rewarding, but it can also bring emotional, physical and practical challenges.
For some men, talking about their feelings or asking for help doesn’t come easily. Expectations around being strong, independent or managing things alone can make it harder to acknowledge when caring is taking its toll.
Over time, this can lead to loneliness, isolation and a lack of opportunities to focus on their own wellbeing.
While Carer support groups offer valuable opportunities to connect, they are often attended predominantly by women. Some men may feel more comfortable opening up in a group with others who share similar experiences.
That’s why dedicated male Carer groups can make such a difference. They offer a relaxed, welcoming environment where men can take a break from their caring responsibilities, enjoy activities, build friendships and talk openly, without pressure or judgement.
Connect with Other Male Carers Across the West Midlands
Whether you fancy a coffee and a chat, a walk in the park or trying something new, there are male Carer groups across the West Midlands offering opportunities to meet others who understand what caring is like.
| Region | When | Time | Where | Contact |
| Birmingham | The fourth Wednesday of every month | 12 noon – 2.00 pm | Various places – usually an activity like bowling, darts, miniature golf etc | Neil Joesbury neiljoesbury@gmail.com |
| Walsall | Every other Tuesday | 10.30 am – 12.00 pm | Community Transport Hub, Walsall Bus Station | info@walsallcarershub.org.uk 01922 616 798 https://walsallcarershub.org.uk |
| Dudley/Black Country Men’s Group | Second Monday of the Month | 12 noon – 2.00 pm | Various places | Neil Joesbury neiljoesbury@gmail.com |
| Sandwell | Every Tuesday | 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm | Murray Hall Community Trust The Bridge, St Marks Road, Tipton DY4 0SL | info@murrayhall.co.uk 01902 826 513 https://www.murrayhall.co.uk |
Please contact the group organiser before attending to confirm the latest meeting details and arrangements.
More Than Just a Group: Building Friendships and Confidence
Neil Joesbury understands the challenges of caring first-hand, having supported both his dad and brother.
Drawing on his own experiences, Neil now leads male Carer groups in Birmingham and Dudley, creating opportunities for men to connect, share experiences and enjoy some well-deserved time for themselves.
Neil explains:
We like to mix things up, whether that’s meeting for a coffee and a chat, going for a walk, playing bowling or interactive darts, or having a round of mini golf. It’s a chance to take a break, meet people who understand and remember that you’re not on your own.
“One of the best things about these groups is seeing men grow in confidence, build friendships and gradually feel more comfortable opening up. There’s never any pressure to talk about caring – sometimes it’s just about having a laugh, enjoying an activity and getting out for a couple of hours.
We’re a really friendly bunch, and we’d love to welcome more male Carers. You don’t need to know anyone or have been to a group before – just come along and give it a try.”
Real Stories, Real Impact: Male Carers Share Their Experiences
For many male Carers, taking that first step towards asking for support can make a life-changing difference.
Here, three Carers share how connecting with support services has helped them feel less isolated, more confident and better able to manage their caring responsibilities.
Alun’s Story: Finding Friendship and Camaraderie
Alun provides full-time care for his wife and regularly attends the Men’s Carer Group run by Walsall Carers Hub.
For Alun, the friendships and shared understanding have been just as important as the practical advice.
“The Hub has provided advice, practical support and, importantly, camaraderie. I’ve received help with dealing with different organisations and accessing Carer breaks, day trips and support groups.
I’ve also developed friendships with several other male Carers. The banter, friendship and mutual support make an immense difference to my wellbeing and sense of worth.”
Gary’s Story: Discovering That Help Is Available
Gary cares for his brother Pete, who has a learning disability. After being referred to Walsall Carers Hub by his GP, Gary discovered support that has made everyday life more manageable for them both.
“For me and Pete, asking for support opened the door to practical help, financial support and a care package that is making everyday life more manageable for both of us.”
Gary’s experience highlights how reaching out can benefit not only the Carer but also the person they care for.
Sami’s Story: Learning That Carers Matter Too
Sami cares for his mum. Balancing his caring responsibilities with full-time studies left him feeling overwhelmed and increasingly isolated.
“I was trying to do everything. I was caring for Mum day and night with very little support while also studying full time. I was overstretched, overwhelmed and increasingly isolated. My mental health was suffering, but I felt I had to keep going.
One of the best things I did was open up about how I was feeling and register with Walsall Carers Hub. For the first time in a long time, the focus was on me and what I needed, giving me the chance to recognise that looking after myself mattered too.
My advice to other men who are caring for someone: don’t feel that you always have to be the strong one.
Talk about what you’re going through. Reach out. Accept support. I’m glad I did.”
This International Men’s Day, Let’s Recognise Male Carers
International Men’s Day, marked each year on 19 November, is an opportunity to celebrate the positive contributions men make to their families and communities, while raising awareness of the importance of men’s health and wellbeing.
For the millions of men providing unpaid care, it’s also a reminder that being there for someone else shouldn’t mean putting your own wellbeing last.
Whether you’ve been caring for years or are only just beginning to recognise yourself as a Carer, you deserve understanding, recognition and support.
You don’t have to manage everything alone. Sometimes, something as simple as a conversation, a shared laugh or meeting someone who understands can make all the difference.
If you’re a male Carer, why not take that first step?
Get in touch with one of the groups above, meet other men who understand your experiences and discover the difference a little support can make.
And if you know a man who supports a loved one, share this article with him. He might not call himself a Carer, but knowing that support is available could make a real difference.
Because every Carer matters – and male Carers deserve to feel recognised, connected and supported too.
Find out more about support for unpaid Carers near you in Birmingham, Walsall, Sandwell or Dudley. Sources: and 1ONS Census 2021 and 2Carers UK – Facts About Carers, June 2025
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