Supporting Unpaid Carers this Carers Week 2026
June 08, 2026Posted by:
Carers Week 2026 is a national awareness campaign recognising the millions of unpaid carers across the UK who provide vital support to family members, friends, and neighbours. It is also an important opportunity to highlight the role employers play in supporting staff who juggle work and caring responsibilities.
Whether you are a carer yourself, know someone who is, or employ people who may be carers, understanding the support available can make a lasting difference.
Who is an unpaid carer?
An unpaid carer is anyone who provides help or support to someone who could not manage without them due to:
- Illness
- Disability
- Mental health needs
- Addiction
- Frailty in older age
Many carers don’t recognise themselves as carers, they may feel they are simply helping someone. However, if someone depends on your support regularly, you are an unpaid carer.
Caring responsibilities can include:
- Supporting with personal care such as washing, dressing, or medication
- Providing emotional support or supervision
- Managing household tasks, cooking, finances, or appointments
- Helping someone access services or attend healthcare appointments, including picking up prescriptions
- Offering companionship to prevent isolation
- Dropping in or calling regularly to see if they are ok
Across the UK, millions of people are balancing caring with everyday life, including employment.
How to find local support for you as a carer
If you are an unpaid carer, there is a wide range of support available: https://www.carersuk.org/help-and-advice/support-where-you-live
How employers can support carers
Carers Week 2026 is an opportunity for employers to take meaningful action and create more supportive workplaces.
Carers Week is a chance for:
- Individuals to recognise themselves as carers and seek support
- Employers to raise awareness and review workplace practices
- Communities to come together and value the role carers play
👉 Learn more about Carers Week 2026:
www.carersweek.org
Gloucestershire Carers Hub – Carers Cuppa and Cake in the community
Gloucestershire Carers Hub is marking the week by celebrating carers and creating opportunities for them to connect, relax, and feel valued.
One of the highlights is “Carer Cuppa and Cake in the Community” a series of welcoming, informal gatherings taking place across the county. These sessions offer carers a chance to:
☕ Take a well‑deserved break
🍰 Enjoy a cuppa and a slice of cake
💬 Meet others who understand the realities of caring
🤝 Access information about local support services
These community events are designed to reduce isolation, build connections, and remind carers that they are not alone.
June 08, 2026Posted by:
