This year marks Carers UK’s 60th anniversary, and in honour this incredible milestone, our Chair, Nick Baird, is taking on a nationwide challenge to raise awareness for the 5.8 million unpaid carers across the UK helping to ensure they get the recognition and support they deserve.
The challenges
Starting in the Spring and carrying on throughout the year, Nick plans to conquer four challenge events across the four nations of the UK.
England
Bath Half Marathon
Sunday 16 March
Starting and finishing in the picturesque city centre of Bath, this 13.1-mile race is one of the UK’s most popular and scenic half marathons.
Scotland
Glasgow Kilt Walk
Sunday 27 April
Taking place amongst a sea of tartan in the heart of Glasgow, this fun, family-friendly walking event is for all ages!
Northern Ireland
Derry Waterside Half Marathon
Sunday 7 September
This 13.1-mile race encapsulates the beauty of Northern Ireland through the historic streets and riverside paths of Derry.
Wales
Cardiff Half Marathon
Sunday 5 October
This popular race runs through the heart of the Welsh capital. It's a fast, flat course that takes in the city’s landmarks and stunning bay views.
Why Nick's taking on the challenge
We asked Nick why he wanted to take on such a big challenge:
“I became a carer for my sister, who has cerebral palsy, after our mother passed away in 2017. Although my sister is in a care home, I handle her emotional and administrative needs. I also cared for my father, who struggled physically and mentally after my mother’s death, until he passed away in 2020. My experiences highlighted the emotional and bureaucratic sides of caring, from managing regular interactions with local authorities to arranging care during
family events abroad.
“I wanted to do this across all four nations because Carers UK is a four-nation charity, and caring is an issue that affects the entire UK. Our hope is to make a real impact, not just financially, but by increasing awareness and understanding of carers’ situations.
“We’ve seen progress, but there’s more to do across all the nations of the UK.
“Fundraising is essential for visibility and support. Many carers don’t identify as such or know what help is available. 5.8 million people in the UK are carers, and our research shows the immense challenges they face. Recognising carers is critical - not only to thank them but to ensure they receive the support they need. Without unpaid carers, the NHS and social care systems would struggle to cope, highlighting the urgency of supportive measures like Carer’s Leave and increased Carer’s Allowance.”
How you can support Nick's challenge
Donate here - every donation helps fund vital services for carers, thank you.
Spread the word - share this page with your network to help us reach as many people as possible
Take on your own challenge - create your own or sign up to one of our events in solidarity for our 60th year.
Nick’s series of challenges is about more than running or walking. It’s about making sure the millions of carers across the UK are recognised and supported. Whether you donate, join an event, or simply share this page, your contributions help create a better future for carers.
Keep checking back to this page throughout the year for updates and progress on Nick’s training and fundraising journey!
Chair the nation updates
Nick’s 10k London Winter Run
“Here's a photo of me after the London Winter Run, which I did as part of my training for the Bath Half.
"I did it in 1hr 11 mins - not exactly Mo Farah, but on target to achieve my aim of 2hr30 for Bath.
"It's a great run, lovely London landmarks, polar bears and yetis, weather chilly but dry, I felt pretty good physically and quite cheerful mentally except for thinking this is only half as far as I have to run in Bath!”
Nick completes the Bath Half
"I actually quite enjoyed running the Bath half, which took place in beautiful weather. I finished in 2.43.33, slow for many people, but one minute and 27 seconds ahead of my target time! I will see if I can beat this in my remaining two half marathons in Derry and Cardiff.
"It was great to meet Tim at the end, my fellow Trustee, who had just completed an 80 mile walk to raise funds and awareness for unpaid carers.
"Now onto the Glasgow Kilt Walk at the end of April which I approach with some trepidation, having never walked 14 miles in a kilt before!"
