A Historic Milestone: A New Chapter for Unpaid Carers in Bangladesh

We are proud to announce a landmark moment in the unpaid carers’ movement in Bangladesh: the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Carers Worldwide and SWID Bangladesh (Society for the Welfare of the Intellectually Disabled).

This groundbreaking partnership marks the beginning of a transformative journey for more than 48,000 unpaid family carers of children and adults with intellectual disabilities across the country.

For too long, these carers have remained invisible - overlooked by society, unheard by decision-makers, and unsupported in their vital role. Today, that begins to change.

This MoU is more than a formal agreement - it is a turning point. It represents a powerful commitment to recognise, support, and amplify the voices of unpaid carers. They will be visible, heard, supported, and their contributions will be valued and their rights upheld - by both society and the government.

What This Partnership Means

This partnership signifies a shared vision to bring unpaid carers out of the shadows and into the light, placing them at the heart of change. It is about creating lasting impact, not just in policy, but in the everyday lives of unpaid carers and those they care for. Through our collaboration with SWID Bangladesh, we aim to establish sustainable structures and networks that provide both practical support and emotional solidarity.

Key Activities in the First Phase

In this first phase of our work together, we will focus on the following activities:

1. Identification and Baseline Survey
   We will begin by identifying unpaid carers and conducting a baseline survey. This will help us understand their current situation, needs, and challenges, forming the foundation for all our future interventions.
2. Promoting Carers Groups
   We will support the formation and strengthening of local carers groups, providing safe spaces for connection, peer support, and mutual learning.
3. Establishing District-Level Carers Associations
   These groups will be scaled up into formal associations at the district level, enabling unpaid carers to collectively advocate for their rights and access to services.
4. Facilitating Access to Government Entitlements
   Unpaid carers and their loved ones will be supported in navigating and accessing relevant government entitlements and schemes, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most.
5. Celebrating the UN International Day of Care and Support
   As part of our awareness-raising efforts, we will mark the UN International Day of Care and Support in 20 districts. This celebration will shine a spotlight on the role of unpaid carers, helping to make caring visible, promote public recognition, and reduce the isolation that so many experience.

Looking Ahead

Through these activities, we aim to reduce the loneliness and isolation that unpaid carers often face. By building strong networks, offering hope, and recognising their contributions, we are creating a future where unpaid carers are no longer invisible. Their voices will be heard, their needs addressed, and their rights upheld.

As we move forward, we will continue to address other key issues affecting unpaid carers, ensuring that they are not only supported today, but empowered for tomorrow.

This is a historic step forward. The future for unpaid carers in Bangladesh is brighter than ever and we are so proud to be on that journey with them. Will you support us on this journey? Every gift is truly appreciated and will make a big impact in the work that we can do with unpaid carers across South Asia. Find out what your donation can do and give a gift today.