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Many people care for a loved one without realising support is available

Carers Week 2026 is taking place from 8^th – 14^th June, with this year’s theme: Building Carer Friendly Communities.

The annual campaign raises awareness of caring, highlights the challenges unpaid carers can face, and celebrates the incredible contribution of those who support family members, friends, neighbours and loved ones every day.

Many people provide care without seeing themselves as a “carer”. They may simply see it as helping Mum, supporting a partner, checking in on a neighbour, or doing what family does. However, recognising that role can be an important step towards accessing much-needed support.

At Angel Carers, we understand how much care can mean. Whether provided by a professional care team or by someone close to home, care is often built on trust, compassion, patience and a deep understanding of another person’s needs.

But caring for someone can also be emotional, tiring and, at times, overwhelming. That is why Carers Week is such an important reminder that carers deserve to feel recognised, supported and valued too.

What does it mean to be an unpaid carer?

According to Carers UK, unpaid carers support someone who could not manage without their help because of illness, disability, mental health needs, addiction or age-related needs.

This support can take many forms. It might include helping with shopping, cooking, housework, medication, appointments, transport, personal care, paperwork, emotional support, or simply checking in to make sure someone is safe and well.

For many people, caring starts gradually. It may begin after an illness, as a loved one gets older, or when daily tasks become more difficult. Over time, small acts of support can become a much bigger caring role.

Unpaid carers play a vital role in helping people remain safe, independent and connected to the lives they know. Their support can make an enormous difference to someone’s wellbeing, confidence and quality of life.

However, carers often put their own needs last. They may feel guilty for needing a break, unsure where to ask for help, or worried about whether they are doing enough. Recognising unpaid carers matters because it helps people feel seen, valued and more able to access support when they need it.

Where to find support

If you support a family member, friend, neighbour or loved one, even if you do not usually call yourself a carer, there is support available.

Useful places to start include:

• Carers Week – information about this year’s campaign and ways to get involved.
• Carers UK – advice and guidance for unpaid carers.
• Dorset Council carers’ support – local information, support and carers’ assessments.

Carers Week is a reminder that carers should not be left to cope alone. At Angel Carers, we would like to thank every unpaid carer for the care, time, patience and love you give every day. Your role matters, and so does your wellbeing.

How we can help

If you are caring for someone and feel that additional support at home could help, Angel Carers is here to listen, guide you through the options available and help you find the right support for your family.

Whether you are considering home care, respite care or live-in care, having the right care in place can help your loved one remain safe, comfortable and independent at home, while giving you reassurance and time to rest.

To discuss your needs, please call us on 01308 459204 or email us at contact@angelcarers.com.

You can also find out more on our Respite Care, Costs & Funding, and Our Services pages.