Southampton City Council and partners are marking Carers Week, which starts today, by hosting two events that recognise, value and celebrate the vital contribution of unpaid carers.

Carers Week is a national campaign that shines a spotlight on the challenges faced by unpaid carers and highlights the essential role they play in supporting family members, friends and neighbours. “Building Carer Friendly Communities” is this year’s theme, as it’s vital that people work together to better support unpaid carers. In the 2021 census, 18,136 people (7.7%) said they provide some level of unpaid care in Southampton.

As part of Carers Week, carers in Southampton are being invited to a special carers lunch on Wednesday 10 June, offering them the time to relax, connect with others and feel appreciated. There will also be afternoon tea and cake later in the day for those carers who were unable to make the lunch.

During these events, a new Carers Charter will be launched, which sets out Southampton City Council’s commitment to valuing, working with, and supporting unpaid carers. This Charter is based on feedback received earlier this year from carers across the city.

Carers will also have the opportunity to comment on the draft Carers Action Plan, which sets out the concrete steps the council will take to improve services and support for carers.

The events form part of a wider programme during Carers Week, focused on recognition, wellbeing and ensuring carers know where to access advice, help and support when they need it.

Councillor Christian Cox, Cabinet Member for Adults and Health at Southampton City Council, said: “I’m delighted that our new Carers Charter is being launched during Carers Week. As a council, we are committed to creating a More Equal Southampton in our City Plan, and this Charter will help us to provide the support our unpaid carers need.”

Sarah Brightwell, Carers Lead at Southampton City Council, said: “Carers are the backbone of families and communities, yet so often their dedication goes unseen. Carers Week is our opportunity to say thank you, to listen, and to make sure carers know they are valued and supported. The carers lunch and afternoon tea are simple but important ways of showing appreciation and giving carers the time and space they so rarely have for themselves.”

Southampton City Council continues to work with carers and partner organisations to improve recognition, support and involvement for unpaid carers, helping to build a more carer‑friendly city where carers feel heard, respected and supported.

Anyone who provides unpaid care is encouraged to find out more about the support that is available to them by visiting Southampton City Council’s website and typing ‘carers’ into the search engine.