In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a

yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved

rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story.

In this episode of Caring Craftivists, we welcome Cas Holmes, an accomplished artist and author,

who shares her unique perspective on the intersection of art and caring.

We delve into the creative process behind her latest work, which repurposes an old duster,

symbolising resilience and the intricate nature of care.

Cas discusses how her artistic practice has evolved in tandem with her role as an unpaid carer for

her partner, Derek, a stroke survivor.

Through her stitching, she explores themes of memory, legacy, and the often-unseen emotional

labour of carers.

We also reflect on the importance of community and the quiet rebellion inherent in craftivism,

highlighting how art can serve as a powerful voice for those navigating the complexities of care.

Cas's insights reveal the profound connections between domesticity, identity, and the creative spirit.

To view Cas’s duster go to: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and

https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/partnerships/

To learn more about Cas and her work, visit her website here: https://casholmes.uk

For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com

To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com

For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk

In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a

yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved

rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story.

In this episode of Caring Craftivists, we sit down with Yvonne, a dedicated carer for her partner

Marie, who has secondary progressive MS. Yvonne shares her journey, detailing the profound

impact that caring has had on her life over the past 20 years.

We explore the challenges of navigating daily life while managing care responsibilities, including the

struggle to carve out personal space amidst constant demands. Yvonne reflects on the emotional

weight of her role, the complexities of relationships with paid carers, and the importance of finding

moments of respite.

Through the lens of a unique duster she crafted for the We Care Campaign, Yvonne articulates the

hidden burdens of unpaid carers and the significance of visibility in our experiences. We discuss the

power of creativity as a form of expression and connection, and how participating in the campaign

has fostered a sense of solidarity among carers.

To view Yvonne’s duster go to: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and

https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/partnerships/

For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com

To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com

For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk

In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a

yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved

rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story.

In this episode of Caring Craftivists we welcome Brian, an unpaid carer from Wales, who shares his

deeply personal journey of caring for his mother until her passing.

Brian reflects on the challenges he faced, including navigating the complexities of the healthcare

system and the emotional toll of witnessing his mother's decline.

We delve into the nuances of unpaid care, discussing the invisible labour that carers undertake, and

how societal expectations can make this role even more challenging.

Brian also shares his experience embroidering his duster in Welsh.

Join us as we explore the intersection of care, activism, and the importance of storytelling in bringing

these vital issues to light. Brian's insights remind us that while the journey of caring can be incredibly

taxing, it is also filled with love and profound connections.

To view Brian’s duster go to: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and

https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/partnerships/

For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com

To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com

For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk

Episode References:

Oxfam https://www.oxfam.org