On Monday, Belgium’s Flanders region will observe Carers’ Day, focusing on over two million residents who daily care for someone in need.
Conducted under the theme #dahadikeffenodig, the campaign highlights and appreciates these caregivers through various activities organised by recognised carer associations and the Flemish Expertise Centre for Informal Care.
Informal care involves regular support for a family member, friend, or neighbour suffering from illness, ageing, a disability, or mental health issues. The campaign aims to thank carers, amplify their voice, and encourage everyone to show gestures of appreciation, from lending a listening ear to offering practical help. The initiative is backed by Caroline Gennez, Flemish Minister for Wellbeing.
“Informal carers often work silently, yet their contribution to our caring society is invaluable. They juggle work, study, and caregiving with incredible dedication. On this Carers’ Day, we listen to their stories and pledge as a government to give them the recognition and support they deserve every day, not just today,” said Gennez.
Research indicates that in nearly 70% of cases, caregiving is provided by someone close, such as family or friends. Flanders is home to about two million informal carers, meaning one in three adult Flemings regularly supports someone in need.
Notably, young people are also stepping up: around one out of five youths aged 11-18 actively help. Over half of the carers balance these responsibilities with work or studies, making it challenging to manage care, work, and personal life. One in three carers feels emotionally burdened, and over 40% report physical complaints.
“Everyone can support carers in their community. Offer an ear, bring over a meal, or run errands. We also urge professionals to involve carers in care processes or offer them suitable support at school or work, like attending meetings from home or rescheduling exams,” said Karel Hermans, coordinator of the Flemish Care Plan.
On 23 June, phone installations across Flanders will allow passersby to listen to carers’ testimonials or share appreciative messages or personal stories. This initiative seeks to raise public awareness of carers’ roles and celebrate and thank them.
Issam Dakka, an actor known for his role in ‘Dertigers,’ where he plays a carer while also caring for his father suffering from ALS, shares his real-life caregiving story. He assists his father daily with tasks like bathing, eating, and providing massages.
“Informal care isn’t always visible, but it’s an everyday reality,” said Dakka. “Sometimes it’s tough, sometimes touching, but always filled with love. Each day is a search for balance between caregiving, work, friendships, and not losing oneself. Sometimes a simple gesture, like someone asking how you’re doing, is all it takes to say: that’s just what I needed.”
