Congratulations to Carer and TV presenter Kate Garraway

For a second consecutive year, TV presenter Kate Garraway won an NTA award last night at the National Television Awards for her documentary Caring For Derek.

Both of Kate’s documentaries focus on her husband Derek Draper who is continuing to battle long-term effects from coronavirus and how the family has had to adapt to his situation, particularly Kate who became his Carer overnight.

The Good Morning Britain presenter spoke of the “care crisis” during her acceptance speech, and praised professional and unpaid carers in the UK for the work they do.

“We made the film to highlight the challenges and rewards of being a carer, but since then things haven’t got any easier either for Derek and I, nor for the millions of other carers right across the UK.” 

“As much as you don’t begrudge doing it, it’s very hard. You saw me frustrated, depressed, emotional, and I’ve been all of those and more in recent weeks and months.”

“We have a care crisis in our country. But we don’t have a crisis of love. The professional carers are extraordinary; the millions who care for people they love are extraordinary. And I think that’s probably why you voted for this because you know it’s all of you we all feel alone. “We all need some care and love. So thank you so much. It means the world to all those people.”

If you look after a friend or family member who depends on your support, you are not alone, there is help and support available just for you the carer who sometimes gets forgotten by healthcare professionals. Contact the Birmingham Carers Hub on 0333 006 9711 or visit our website.