This project shines a light on the intimate and often unspoken realities of caring. It is built around one simple but deeply meaningful idea: objects. Each object, nominated by a carer, tells a unique story - a window into the love, commitment, exhaustion, endurance, humour, and heartbreak that define their lives.
Whether it’s an everyday item imbued with extraordinary meaning or a cherished keepsake, every object represents a carer’s journey. Through these stories, we aim to foster understanding, appreciation, and meaningful conversations about the realities of unpaid care.
This is more than an exhibition - it is a tribute to the millions of unpaid carers whose contributions often go unnoticed by society. By sharing their voices, we hope to bring recognition and respect to those whose roles are essential yet frequently invisible.
We believe in the power of storytelling to change perceptions and inspire change. to create a world where unpaid carers are seen, valued, and supported—not just for the sacrifices they make but for their remarkable resilience and humanity.
Every object in this collection tells a story. A worn pair of walking shoes may speak of endless journeys to care for a loved one. A battered cookbook could represent years of preparing comforting meals. These objects capture the extraordinary within the ordinary, offering a glimpse into the lives of carers, and the emotional and practical labour they undertake.
Unpaid carers are individuals who provide essential care and support to family members, friends, or neighbours with physical, mental, or emotional needs. This could mean looking after someone with a disability, a long-term illness, or an ageing parent. Carers often juggle their responsibilities with work, family, and their own health, with little recognition or support from wider society.Through this project, we aim to highlight the contributions of carers and the complexity of their experiences, breaking down stereotypes and fostering understanding.
Objects are powerful symbols of meaning, acting as gateways to untold stories. They serve as tangible reminders of the love, care, and strength that underpin the carer’s role. By anchoring each story in an object, we bring the carers’ experiences to life in a way that is both personal and universally relatable.
Carers' lives in 100 objects is a collaborative effort, and we would love you to be part of it. Here’s how you can help:
Nominate an Object: Are you a carer with a story to share? Submit your object and its story for inclusion in the project.
Spread the Word: Share this initiative with your community to help raise awareness of carers’ stories and experiences.
Support the Project: Make a donation, volunteer your time, or partner with us to help reach more carers and share their voices.
If you’d like to learn more, share your story, or get involved, please reach out to us. Together, we can honour the lives of unpaid carers and bring their experiences into the spotlight.