Poppy is a carer currently supporting someone living with dementia. This experience has deepened Poppy’s understanding of the practical and emotional challenges carers face and reinforced the importance of accessible support systems.
As a member of the Centre for Care Advisory Board, Poppy remains committed to advocating for carer-inclusive policies and contributing to research that enhances care practices across the UK.
In addition, Poppy served as a co-researcher in a project led jointly by the Centre for Care and Carers Trust, Solihull, under the guidance of Dr Chloe Alexander of the University of Birmingham. Alongside other young adult carers, they developed the concept of the “state of don’t know”, an intermediate identity status where young people grapple with uncertainty about whether to identify as carers or seek support. Their group advocated for including a “don’t know” option in identification processes, which could better reflect transitional identity experiences and improve accessibility and recognition of support services.