Caring Out Loud: Giving Unpaid Carers a Voice Through Podcasting

In 2025, I was over the moon to secure funding on behalf of Get Wise as part of Hconnect, funded by the Accelerating Reform Fund (ARF) to deliver a podcast project with unpaid carers across Derbyshire, with Derbyshire Carers.

I had never worked with carers before, and I was excited to meet a new community, learn from their experiences, and better understand the realities of unpaid caring. Little did I know I was about to meet some of the most inspiring people I’ve ever had the privilege of working with.

The aim of the project was to create a podcast series, but it was about so much more than producing episodes. This was a podcast made by carers, for carers.

Through a series of creative and inclusive workshops, carers were supported to share their stories, develop new skills, and take the lead in shaping the podcast. Together, we explored podcast production, sound recording, presenting, interviewing, scripting, and storytelling. The goal was to create a safe and supportive space where carers could feel heard, valued, and connected with others who understood their experiences.

To deliver the project, I teamed up with the incredibly talented Michelle Walker, who has worked across organisations including the BBC, ITV, and National Prison Radio. Together, we delivered workshops over a six-month period with carers from across Derbyshire, guiding participants through the process of creating their own podcast episodes.

Each episode was shaped by the carers themselves. They chose the topics that mattered to them, shared the experiences they wanted others to hear, and helped create conversations around the realities of caring. We explored themes including what it means to be a carer, accessing support, carers assessments, hospital experiences, care homes, respite, financial advice, finding community, and so much more.

I had the privilege of hearing stories from carers with years of experience, meeting people who support carers, and learning about the incredible work happening across health, social care, and community services.

The project completely opened my eyes to the world of unpaid caring. Behind every carer is a story – stories of love, resilience, challenges, sacrifice, laughter, and incredible strength. So often, the work carers do happens quietly and without recognition, yet they provide such an essential role in our communities.

Throughout this project, I’ve cried during workshops, laughed until my face hurt, experienced moments of genuine connection, and met so many inspiring people. From carers and volunteers to support workers and community teams, every person involved brought something special.

I’m incredibly proud to share that the Caring Out Loud Podcast by Derbyshire Carers is now being released on YouTube, with episodes coming out over the next few months. The first episode is available now!

In episode one, we explore a simple but important question: what does it mean to be a carer? So many people care for someone they love every day but don’t recognise themselves as a carer, or realise that support is available to them.

The podcast is presented by two wonderful hosts, Suzy and Cullen, who both have their own experiences of caring for someone they love. Their honesty, warmth, and willingness to share their stories have been at the heart of this project. The podcast would not have been possible without them.

What makes this project so special is that it doesn’t just create something for the carers who took part, it creates something for carers everywhere. The episodes provide a chance for people listening at home to feel less alone, hear experiences they relate to, discover support, and feel connected to a wider community.

The stories shared through Caring Out Loud With Derbyshire Carers will continue to be used beyond the project, as a resource for carers, support groups, training, and anyone wanting to better understand the experiences of unpaid carers.

I also want to say a huge thank you to Derbyshire Carers Association, Derby Carers, and the H-Connect Project for being so welcoming, supportive, and inspiring throughout this project. I don’t think I’ve ever met a team who cares so deeply about the people they support. Your passion and dedication have been incredible, and I’m going to miss working with you.

This project has reminded me of the power of storytelling. When people are given the space to share their experiences, something incredible happens: people feel seen, heard, and less alone.

Episode one of the Caring Out Loud Podcast is out now. Go and have a listen!

Keep a look out for future episodes – dropping fortnightly!