Why I Care cover art

Why I Care

And why care matters

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About this listen

A Telegraph Greatest Book of the Year A deeply personal account of life as a carer and a call to support those who care for others

'Ed Davey wants to rewrite British politics – not with the language of crisis, but that of care. … He offers something rare – moral clarity rooted in lived experience.' Guardian

'Caring is how we know we’re alive. The good in all of us has been shaped by care. Hold a mirror up to that, and we’ll realise our potential.'

Care is the thread that runs through Ed’s 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 Ed’s 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 isn’t just Ed’s story. It's the story of millions.

©2025 Sir Ed Davey (P)2025 HarperCollins Publishers
Politicians Politics & Activism Politics & Government

Critic 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: here’s why.’ Dan Snow

'It’s 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

'A remarkable book, Why I Care is a heartwrenching account of the joys of caring for a disabled loved one and the nightmare of battling with the bureaucracy of the benefits system.' Sunday Times

'The title has a literal meaning that transforms this book into a sincere, pragmatic and powerful analysis of one of the most urgent dilemmas facing our country today. … Davey’s optimism and his pure love for his family, his obviously sincere concern, shines from his writing.' Telegraph

'Every morning at 6am, Sir Ed wakes up his severely disabled 17-year-old son, John, then cleans his teeth, bathes him and gives him his morning massage. In Why I Care, he frames this both an act of love and a foundational political insight.' Guardian

‘Among the most compelling, moving pieces of political prose I have read in a very long time.’ John Harris, Guardian

'Extraordinary.' Ben Shephard

All stars
Most relevant
I really appreciated the story’s form a wide array of people in the middle of the book

Allowing us to see into his family’s life

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I think this is a book that many people should read, it gives a balanced insight into what caring is like. I strongly believe that caring and the caring professions needs much more recognition, not just financial but physically and emotionally. And that this is an excellent career choice. The more holistic approach described in this book needs more media attention to prompt caring. Well done Ed.

A compassionate account

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Relaxing voice! He really does understand about the care system in the UK. An emotional listen but worthwhile. Thank you.

Why I Care by Ed Davey

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This is a compelling read by that most unusual of politicians, one who genuinely knows his subject and can communicate it with clarity and integrity. I really felt I gained in understanding of the role of Care Givers through Davy's own story and the case studies he shared. There is much more to Ed Davy than election stunts, I regret not having realised that sooner.

A politician who cares

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An enjoyable and inspiring book. An antidote to the almost fascist times and a reminder of what we should value in life.

Restored my faith in politicians

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