One in eight people in Belfast is a carer.
That figure is based on the latest census data from 2021 - and is likely much lower than the actual figure as many people doing a caring role have not been identified as doing so by themselves of the various support agencies.
We worked with the team at the Carer Support Service to document the stories of five carers in Belfast.
The series was created to coincide with the launch of a new Carer's Strategy by the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust in September 2025.
The aim of the series was to help inform policy concerning how carers can be better supported by the Belfast Trust and other agencies as they perform a vital role in reducing pressure on the National Health Service.
Hear what Zoe, Ronan, Ruth, Gillian and Jill have to say about their day to day responsibilities and the support that they receive from the Carer Support Service
Zoe became a carer at the age of 14 when her Mum received a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.
Zoe now works for the Carer Support Service to help develop the carer support strategy and works with carers to provide the support they need.
Ruth has worked as a consultant in the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust for more than 20 years and now cares for her father who is approaching his 92nd birthday.
Jill cares for her son who has Down Syndrome and is 32 years old.
Jill talks about how she has navigated the different agencies and bodies to ensure her son receives the support he needs.
Gillian cares for her mother who is in her 90s and still lives independently.
Gillian also works on a voluntary basis with the Carer Support Service to hep develop the support mechanisms that are needed in order to ensure that carers receive the support they need.
Ronan cares for his wife who has Multiple Sclerosis.
Ronan talks about the activities organised by the Carer Support Service and how they provide the opportunity to connect with people who understand what you are going through.
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