Carers Week 2026
08 June 2026
This week, June 8th-June 14th, is national Carers Week. According to Carers UK,
“Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face, and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. It also helps people who don't think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.
A carer is anyone who looks after a family member or friend who has a disability, mental or physical illness, addiction, or who needs extra help as they grow older. The impact of caring on all aspects of life from relationships and health to finances and work can be significant.
Whilst many feel that caring is one of the most important things they do, its challenges should not be underestimated. Caring without the right information and support can be tough. It is vitally important that we recognise the contribution carers make to their families and local communities, workplaces and society, and that they get the support they need.
Carers need to be recognised for the difficulties they are experiencing, respected for all they are doing, provided with information, and given the support they need to care safely.
The theme for Carers Week 2026 is 'Building Carer Friendly Communities', highlighting the impact carer friendly communities can have in making a real and lasting difference to the lives of carers everywhere.
Each day of Carers Week will focus on a different type of community where, together, we can create real change for carers:
Monday – Health
Tuesday – Social care
Wednesday – Work
Thursday – Education
Friday – Business and services
Saturday – Community
Sunday – Reflections on Carers Week.
For more on how to create and strengthen ‘carer friendly communities’, go to https://www.carersweek.org/building-carer-friendly-communities/ and see how you can get involved”.
Note - the above is taken from the Carers UK website. This can be found at: https://www.carersweek.org/about-carers-week/ .
According to Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK:
“Caring for a loved one should never be a reason for facing inequality, but sadly this is a reality for many in the UK. Unpaid carers are desperate for a break, for better health and social care provision, financial support and equality in the workplace. Over half say they need better understanding and recognition from the public.
Carers Week 2026 is a crucial opportunity to increase awareness, highlighting those who provide vital care to family members, friends or neighbours when they need it most. We want to see a future where they have the right support and the same opportunities to lead healthy and financially secure lives alongside their caring role.
Please get involved in Carers Week 2026. You can find out more about it and how to get involved at carersweek.org “.
Remember: If you are an unpaid carer who wants to know about your rights and entitlements, call your local Citizens Advice office on 0808 250 5715 for free, confidential, impartial and independent advice. Or follow us on TwitterX at @CAAcrossWarks.
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