Find out what's on to support carers

Carers Week which runs from Monday 10 to Sunday 16 June, aims to recognise the tremendous contribution that people who care for a loved one make to society and raise awareness of the support available to our carers locally. 

One in eight of us, at some point in our lives, will look after a loved one who has a disability, mental or physical illness, addiction, or who needs extra help as they grow older. These responsibilities affect people of all ages and backgrounds and can be emotionally and physically challenging.

Carers Week 2024, themed ‘Putting Carers on the Map’, is all about recognising the challenges carers face and putting the resources and information to help improve their daily lives front and centre. 

June activities and offers for carers

Richmond Carers Centre is hosting a range of activities and workshops throughout June and into July to provide much-needed support and respite. These include things like local tours, bath bomb and jewellery making workshops, massage and self-care sessions, bingo socials and a falls prevention session. View the Carers Week 2024 programme.

To register, please email support@richmondcarers.org 

Our sports and fitness centres are offering local carers a free fitness assessment. Participants can receive a free seven day pass to the borough’s leisure centres upon completion, simply enquire when you’re contacted to arrange your free assessment.

Residents who receive a carers allowance can enjoy concessionary membership rates at all sports and fitness facilities in our borough. Find out about fitness memberships.

Ongoing support available to carers

It is crucial to ensure carers’ health and wellbeing remain supported as they provide assistance for their dependents. In Richmond upon Thames, there is a vast amount of local support available to help.

As a first step, we strongly encourage all carers to take a free carer's assessment, which is simply a conversation with you that helps us understand the impact caring is having on your life and how best to support.

For young carers aged 18 or under helping to look after someone at home who needs extra support or care, there are many supportive resources and networks available locally. Find out about support for young carers and siblings.

If you let your GP know you are a carer, they can provide you with support to ensure you take care of your own health. This might be by offering flexible appointments and longer consultation slots for carers or, with permission, referring carers to Richmond Carers Centre and signposting them to other helpful local networks.

Adult carers and young carers living in or caring for a loved one living in our borough can access further services by registering with Richmond Carers Centre. To register, please contact Richmond Carers Centre at 020 8867 2380.