Why I Care: And why care matters

(Hardback)

---

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

A deeply personal account of life as a carer and a call to support those who care for others

For Ed Davey, politics really is personal The Times

'Caring is how we know were alive.

The good in all of us has been shaped by care. Hold a mirror up to that, and well realise our potential.'

Care is the thread that runs through Eds life. Aged only four, Ed lost his father. When his mother also became ill with cancer, Ed and his brothers nursed her at home until she died when Ed was just 15. That formative experience was one of the main inspirations in seeking election, and with it the opportunity to take action. Now, he and his wife care for their son John, who has severe physical and learning disabilities, as well as raising their younger daughter. So Ed has real knowledge of the emotional, physical and financial challenges faced by legions of carers in Britain today.

Why I Care is both a deeply personal story, drawing on Eds own experiences, and a book that reflects the stories of people everywhere to offer a vision of change. Shedding light on the often-invisible world of carers, he calls for society, our government and our institutions to recognise, support, and lift up the silent carers who form the backbone of our communities.

This isnt just Eds story. It's the story of millions.

Reviews

'Ed Davey is living proof that sometimes the personal and the political can mix in a way that benefits society as a whole.' Alastair Campbell

Why I Care is a heartfelt and emotional read in which Ed shares his own moving journey, alongside the inspiring stories of others. A powerful, important book that will change perceptions. Baroness Floella Benjamin OM DBE

A profoundly moving and essential read. With deep compassion and personal insight, Ed shines a light on the unsung heroes of our society carers. This book is a heartfelt call to action, demanding we value, respect, and support those who give so much. Carol Vorderman

The British public believe Ed Davey is the most authentic of politicians: heres why. Dan Snow

'Its the role no one wants, or expects, to play. Yet millions fulfill it with little or no support, either financial or moral. Who cares for the carers Sir Ed Davey has a powerful voice, and here he is using it in the best way possible; not as political leader but as carer. It should be on the desk of every politician in Westminster.' John Suchet

About Ed Davey's care journey

[Davey] is unusually open and approachable, guileless. He tells [his] story matter-of-factly, but its full of searingly sad details. The Guardian

[Davey] has overcome the most astonishing series of setbacks. but he doesnt feel unfortunate. He just wants the Liberal Democrats to become the voice for carers and the NHS. For him, politics really is personal. The Times

As a constituency MP, Davey had helped many families with disabled children fight for access to care, particularly with education, health and care plans, and so when it came to getting support for his son John he assumed his experience would make it easier. The Sunday Times

Author Bio

Sir Ed Davey MP has been the leader of the Liberal Democrats since 2020, having acted in the position from 2019 to 2020. He has been MP for Kingston and Surbiton since 2017, having previously held the role from 1997 until 2015. He was born in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, and is married with two children.