Building Carer Friendly Communities
The theme of Carers Week 2026, Building Carer Friendly Communities, highlights the vital role that local organisations and communities play in recognising, understanding, and valuing unpaid carers.
At Portsmouth Carers Service, our aim is to support carers to look after their own wellbeing and live the life they choose alongside their caring role. A truly carer-friendly community is one where carers feel seen, listened to, and supported – where organisations work together to provide the opportunities, flexibility, and practical help that carers need.
Supportive employers, services, and community groups can make a profound difference. When carers are understood and supported, they are better able to balance their caring responsibilities with their own health, relationships, and aspirations.
Portsmouth carers Kelly and Karen have kindly shared their experiences of finding the right support within their community. Their stories highlight the real impact that carer-friendly approaches can have, demonstrating how understanding, flexibility, and compassion from organisations can make a meaningful difference in carers lives.