A snapshot in compassion: Carers

Care workers in Plymouth were captured in their element, showcasing their dedication and compassion to the job as part of a portrait photography project.  

Photographed while at work at Butterfly Lodge, run by care provider Camelot Care, the prints aim to shine a light on what are often seen as the unsung heroes of the social care system.  

The project, the brainchild of filmmaker and photographer Daisy Moseley, seeks to acknowledge and salute the hard work and commitment of the country’s more than 10 million carers.  

To capture the essence of caregiving, Daisy, 35, visited dementia specialist Camelot Care’s four homes in the region, photographing the lives of care workers at their workplace.  

“I was inspired through helping my mother provide end of life care for my late grandmother and saw just how much work goes into it,” said Daisy.  

“It made me realise how vital and demanding the role of a carer truly is. Caring for someone can be a beautiful thing, but it’s also physically and emotionally draining.  

“I want to document the incredible work of these individuals and share their stories and raise awareness to a wider audience."  

Daisy, who grew up in the West Country, believes the role of caregivers is undervalued in society.  

"It feels like no one noticed the work they did until covid hit—some at the cost of their own lives—and their vital work behind the scenes.  

“One minute we were all on our doorsteps clapping them, the next, it feels as though we forgot all about them again, as though nothing had ever happened.”  

Daisy, who is a freelance art director for commercials and a set director, shot the photographs in both colour and in black and white.  

“I spent quite a lot of time with each person, talking with them about their job, why they became a carer and what the work means to them.  

“It was touching to see how much they care for the people they look after, the different relationships they have with the residents, and how it’s different for each one of them.  

“The carers that I met were from all different walks of life – some who had been in the profession for 20 years, others who were just coming into the sector.  

"Each one I met had a unique story about how they came to be there – some inspired by personal experiences, others wanting to make a meaningful impact in their communities.  

"Carers are the unsung heroes of our society. Through this project, I want to ensure their efforts are recognized and valued."  

Daisy visited Camelot Care homes in Yeovil, Bridgwater, and Wellington.  

She is hoping to get art funding to stage an exhibition of the photographs and create a book as a lasting tribute to carers and the work they do.  

Paul Teasdale, director of Camelot Care, expressed his support for Daisy.  

"We are delighted that Daisy is highlighting the crucial role of care workers. Her photographs beautifully capture the dedication and empathy our staff bring to their work every day."  

"We are delighted that Daisy is highlighting the role of care workers. Her photographs beautifully capture the dedication and empathy our staff bring to their work every day,"  

Butterfly Lodge is one of four specialist dementia care homes run by Camelot Care in Somerset and Devon. Further details at www.camelotcare.co.uk  

Photo: Rose Ntaopane, Butterfly Lodge