#HumansCare | A Path to Recovery and Independence, Susila and Sethu's Story

In 2023, we partnered with WORD in Tamil Nadu and launched our first project together "To Empower Carers Through Awareness and Alternative Livelihood Programmes." This project focuses on supporting unpaid family carers of individuals with mental illness, aiming to improve their lives, support their livelihoods, and foster community integration.

Susila and Sethu's story exemplifies the impact of this initiative. Susila faced the challenging task of caring for her husband, Sethu, who struggled with mental illness, while also managing their household and raising two sons. Despite seeking treatment from local medical facilities, Sethu's condition remained a significant source of stress for the family.

A turning point came for them when a volunteer met the family at a mental health camp facilitated by our partner WORD. Under the guidance of doctors there and with Susila's continued support, Sethu began a consistent medication and support regimen. Gradually, his condition started to improve.

Encouraged by WORD and our carers' project, Susila took steps to diversify their family income. She began selling vegetables in neighbouring villages, a venture that proved successful. Their daily profits grew to around 5,000 Rupees, equivalent to about £46, providing much-needed stability for the family and supporting their sons' education.

Today, Susila and Sethu work together in their vegetable business, their partnership strengthening both their family's financial situation and their standing in the community.

Grateful for the positive changes in their lives, Sethu now volunteers with WORD, offering support to unpaid carers and individuals facing mental health challenges.

This story highlights how targeted support can lead to meaningful improvements in the lives of unpaid carers and their families, creating a ripple effect of positive change in their communities.

If you’d like to help us support more families like Susila and Sethu’s, then please do consider giving a gift. Thank you!