Swid Carers Association demands government support and social recognition for family carers

Swid Carers Association formed a human chain today (17 September), demanding fair rights, incentives and social recognition for carers who provide constant care and support to persons with neurodevelopmental disabilities.

The programme took place at 11am in front of the Department of Women's Affairs near Holy Family Red Crescent Medical College in the capital's Eskaton area. After the human chain, the organisation also distributed leaflets.

Swid Carers Association President Rashida Jesmin Rosy said carers silently shoulder a heavy responsibility in society but receive no specific benefits. She called for healthcare services, training, allowances and the establishment of special service centres for the elderly.

Shamsunnahar Lipi, the association's executive secretary, said those who care for persons with disabilities or long-term illnesses remain socially neglected, while developed countries have effective policies to improve carers' rights and living standards. She urged the government to formally recognise carers' services in policy, grant them special allowances, priority access to various benefits, and social dignity.

She placed five key demands:

1. Recognise the work of caregivers of persons with disabilities as a profession and include it in various government policies.
2. Provide a priority identification card enabling carers to receive services on a priority basis.
3. Introduce an honorarium allowance for carers and ensure that, for each family with a person with disabilities, one individual is formally recognised as a carer to receive this allowance.
4. Give carers priority in access to government loan facilities for their socio-economic development.
5. Treat carers with respect and honour them especially so they feel encouraged in their work.

Carers Alliance Bangladesh President Mahbubul Monir said that although there is a law on the protection of persons with disabilities in the country, there is no separate policy for carers despite their tireless 24-hour service.

He noted that a "caregiver" and a "carer" are different: one works for payment, while the other selflessly cares for a family member or loved one without remuneration. Yet these selfless carers receive no recognition. He demanded government allowances, healthcare and priority facilities for carers.

Speakers said carers are a neglected section of society, though their labour makes a significant contribution to the nation's society and economy. They urged the government to take urgent policy initiatives.