What is Carers Week?
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.
The campaign is brought to life by thousands of individuals and organisations who come together to provide support for carers, run activities, highlight the vital role carers play in our communities and draw attention to just how important caring is.
The theme in 2024 was 'Putting Carers on the Map' highlighting the invaluable contributions of carers across the UK and ensuring their voices were heard loud and clear. Together we aimed to help increase the visibility of the carers among politicians, employers and throughout our communities. And by raising awareness we hope they will better recognise the challenges unpaid carers face and help them access the support they deserve.
Who is a carer?
A carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to a family member or friend who has a disability, illness, mental health condition, addiction, or who needs extra help as they grow older. It isn’t someone who volunteers or is employed to provide support.
Latest updates
News
111 MPs and Peers show their support for unpaid carers at event in Parliament
Today, key charities brought unpaid carers to an event in Parliament to share their experiences of caring with MPs and Peers.
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Supporting Unpaid Carers event at the Scottish Parliament
Carers Week Reception: Supporting Unpaid Carers event at the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday 5 June 2024
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