ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we consider the idea that caring can involve networks or chains of individuals, resources and sometimes organisations that are linked together in care relationships across space and through time. In a network, there are cross-cutting ties between some or all of its members. In a chain, there is a simpler forward or backward link between pairs of members. But, in both cases, a care event can involve many people. The simplest example would be a network of friends who care for one another. They may ‘care’ by exchanging physical care, helping when someone is ill, for example; but they may also provide emotional care for one another through meeting up at home or in a variety of social and paid work venues, as well as through phoning, texting and emails.
