Our 60th anniversary offers the opportunity to look back on key individuals who have been instrumental in shaping Carers UK and our call for greater equality for carers.
Our Founder
Reverend Mary Webster
Reverend Mary Webster was a pioneering advocate for carers' rights in the UK. In 1954, at the age of 31, she left her position as a congregational minister to care for her elderly parents, experiencing firsthand the financial and social challenges faced by unpaid carers.
Her pioneering work laid the foundation for the carers' movement in the UK, leading to greater recognition and support for carers nationwide.
Our Chief Executives
Together our Chief Executives have overseen vital legislative advancements in carers rights in the journey toward greater recognition and support for unpaid carers.
Helen Walker,
2018-present
Helen has spearheaded the delivery of Carers UK’s Vision 2025, our ambitious strategy which strives for carers to be treated equally in all aspects of their lives. Her tenure as Chief Executive has seen notable milestones for carers, including the passage of the Carer’s Leave Act 2023 which granted working carers the right to unpaid leave.
Prior to Carers UK, Helen gained significant leadership experience within civil society organisations, including as Chief Executive of the national volunteering charity TimeBank and as Director of Fundraising at the military charity SSAFA.
Heléna Herklots CBE,
2012-2018
Heléna is a leading advocate for carers and older people. As Chief Executive of Carers UK, she influenced the development of the Care Act 2014, which enshrined carers' rights to assessment and support in law. In 2017 Heléna was awarded a CBE for her outstanding services to carers.
In 2018 Heléna went on to become the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, championing older people’s rights and an end to ageism. In 2022 the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing initiative, recognised Heléna as one of their 'Healthy Ageing 50.'
Imelda Redmond CBE,
2003–2011
As Chief Executive of Carers UK, Imelda led our unceasing efforts to improve support for carers. Under her leadership, Carers UK continued to influence important legislation, such as the Work and Families Act which introduced rights for carers to request flexible working arrangements.
Imelda was awarded a CBE in 2009, in recognition of her significant contributions to the voluntary sector. She has held leadership roles with Healthwatch England, Marie Curie and 4Children, focusing respectively on patient voice, end-of-life care, and support for children.
Diana Whitworth,
1999-2003
Diana's time as Chief Executive, oversaw our rebrand from the Carers National Association to Carers UK, expanding the organisation with regional branches whilst strengthening our national advocacy to ensure carers issues are championed at all levels.
Diana later became co-director of Grandparents Plus, seeking to raise awareness of the role of grandparents and the extended family play in the development of children. Prior to Carers UK, she held senior leadership roles with the National Consumer Council, helping to give an independent voice to UK consumers.
Baroness Jill Pitkeathley,
1986–1998
Baroness Pitkeathley led the Carers National Association, later named Carers UK, and successfully influenced significant legislative advances for carers. This included the Carers (Recognition and Services) Act 1995, the first UK law to formally acknowledge and address the needs of unpaid carers. She was awarded an OBE in 1994 in recognition of her work for carers. A true pioneer within the carers movement, we are delighted to benefit from her continued support as a Vice President of Carers UK
In 1997 Baroness Pitkeathley was made a Labour life peer and appointed as Baroness Pitkeathley of Caversham. In addition, she has also chaired several national organisations, including the National Lottery, Children and Family Courts Association and the Professional Standards Authority.
