Community project calls for 'more caring economy'

Campaigners who say the "act of caring is not valued in society" have painted their message on a wall to call for a "more caring economy".

The Value the Caring Economy Alliance painted the mural on a wall on Gatton Road by the M32 in Bristol.

Residents were invited to add their hand prints in support.

Alliance communications officer Claire Charras said the average pay for care workers has been decreasing by 9.1% every year.

The wall along Gatton Road was painted by the alliance and participants

The project is supported by the People's Republic of Stokes Croft

"The act of caring is not valued in society," she said.

"We've also seen that women do the majority of caring, this could be child care or looking after an elderly or disabled persons.

"This means they are less able to work, may have to give up work for their responsibilities or take part time jobs.

According to Adzuna jobs portal, the average pay for care workers in Bristol has been decreasing by about 9.1% annually, compared to a 5.0% annual decrease for Care worker jobs nationwide.

Research from the TUC federation of trade unions, nine out of 10 care workers in England earn less than £15 per hour.

The Value the Caring Economy Alliance said people who were cared for at home "won't be cared for in hospital" so therefore "carers are providing a saving to society and the economy, which again is not recognised".

Ms Charras said carers in Bristol were paid the least in the UK

"That is why we are calling for a more caring economy," the Alliance communications officer Claire Charras added.

Alliance organisers hope the project, supported by The People's Republic of Stokes Croft, also encourages residents to think about their local councillors' positions on care ahead of upcoming local elections.

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