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RAISES AWARENESS

Early Signs You Might Be A Caregiver

Most of us will become carers at some point in our lives, and every story is different. For some, it’s an instantaneous transition, while for others, it’s a gradual process of taking on more responsibilities. While every situation is unique,...

Supporting Family Caregivers Across Language Barriers

Canada is one of the most diverse nations in the world. With over 200 languages spoken across the country and more than 7 million people speaking a language other than English or French, it’s no surprise that language impacts the...

Understanding the Unique Challenges of Marginalized Caregivers in Canada

​It’s estimated that 28% of Canadians currently provide unpaid care for loved ones, and this figure is expected to increase as Canada’s population ages. Caregiving affects millions of people across the country, but not all caregivers face the same challenges....

THE EXPERIENCES OF MARGINALIZED CANADIAN FAMILY CAREGIVERS

In October 2023, three virtual roundtable discussions brought together caregiving experts such as researchers, professors, caregivers, and executive members of Canadian caregiving organizations to discuss the experiences of marginalizes family caregivers across the country. These discussions aimed to delve into the complex intersectional barriers encountered by marginalized family caregivers.

BALANCING WORK AND CARE: EXPERIENCES OF WORKING CAREGIVERS AND EVIDENCE FOR CRAFTING SUPPORTIVE WORKPLACES FOR CAREGIVERS

35% of the Canadian workforce is balancing work and unpaid caregiving responsibilities. If not supported, these individuals face difficult, life-altering choices, such as reducing their work hours, turning down job opportunities, taking a leave of absence or leaving the labour market.

NAVIGATING FAMILY CAREGIVING IN CANADA: TACKLING SYSTEMIC CHALLENGES AND IDENTIFYING OPPORTUNITIES FOR SUPPORT

In October 2021, a diverse group of caregiving thought leaders, practitioners and caregivers with lived experiences met to explore systemic challenges impacting caregivers and discuss opportunities to increase awareness of the importance of caregiving and better address caregivers’ needs.

The sessions helped us develop a more nuanced appreciation of the varied and complex issues in the caregiving space. It further clarified the potential for charitable organizations to partner with other agents of change to overcome them.

CAREGIVING IN CANADA: ADDRESSING CHALLENGES AND SHAPING A NATIONAL DIALOGUE

In October 2020, our virtual roundtables brought together thought leaders and advocates in the caregiving industry. We brought these experts together to inform our work in the caregiving sector and to better understand the key issues and opportunities that caregivers face every day.

Please check our frequently asked questions here.

I am a family caregiver in need of support. What resources are available to me?

While the Petro‑Canada CareMakers Foundation is unable to provide financial assistance to individuals, there are a number of provincial organizations available to support you with resources and tools. Please see below, for one in your province, or alternatively call 211 to find an organization in your local area that may be able to offer you support:

What is your definition of a family caregiver?
To us, a family caregiver is someone who provides unpaid support to a family member, friend or loved one who is experiencing a significant mental or physical health challenge. This support could be long-term, or episodic to address an acute health situation. Other terminology often used is care partner or carer.
How is the Petro‑Canada CareMakers Foundation funded?
As a registered charity, the Petro‑Canada CareMakers Foundation receives contributions from a wide variety of sources. The CareMakers Foundation received start-up funding and support from Suncor, the proud owner of Petro‑Canada.
Who makes up the Board of Directors?

Our Board of Directors is made up of members from Petro‑Canada, Suncor and external experts. We intend to add to this complement over time, to include greater diversity of experience, geographic representation, expertise and lived caregiver experience.

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