Commitment to Carers Conference 2026

Building Carer Friendly Communities

This event will bring together Carers, Support Services, and Key Organisations to establish how we can build

Carer Friendly Communities and improve support for those who have caring responsibilities for family and friends

✔       Hear from inspiring speakers

✔       Discover local support services

✔       Connect with fellow Carers

✔       Have your voice heard

Carers play an essential role in our community—let’s make sure they are supported and valued

What makes a Community Carer Friendly? 

Carer friendly communities are places, spaces, services and community groups where Family & Friend Carers are recognised, understood, and valued.

They make support part of everyday life ensuring Carers get the opportunities and help they need.  

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They are made up of people who:  

• Recognise Family & Friend Carers and the vital role they play 

• Understand the realities and impact of caring 

• Take action to identify and support Carers in practical ways 

• Empower Carers to live fulfilling lives 

When communities work together in this way, Carers have fairer opportunities and can lead better lives

Making a Difference to Carers 

Carer friendly communities can exist anywhere Carers live, work, study, or spend time.

Even small changes in these places can, and do, make a big difference to Carers’ daily lives.

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There’s lots of different ways Carer friendly communities can help, for instance:

• Health – GP practices, pharmacies or health services raising awareness amongst their staff to help identify and connect Carers to support

• Social Care – taking a whole-family approach to ensure everyone gets the help they need

• Work – offering flexible working to support employees to juggle paid work and caring

• Education – schools, colleges, or universities identifying Young Adult Carers and putting support in place to help them reach their potential    

• Community – community organisations, faith groups, or recreation clubs creating opportunities for Carers to feel connected 

• Business and Services – making everyday tasks easier for Carers by offering flexible or priority access