09/06/2026
This week is Carers Week, a time for us to recognise the dedication of unpaid carers who make an extraordinary difference every day.
Many people don't see themselves as carers – they're simply supporting someone they love. They are parents, partners, siblings, sons, daughters and friends who are often there 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
At Southampton Mencap, we meet families like this every day. They balance caring responsibilities alongside work, family life and their own well being. They play a vital role not only in the lives of the people they support, but also in our wider community. Without their dedication, health and social care services would face much greater pressure.
Did you know that in Southampton, more than 18,000 people identified themselves as unpaid carers in the last Census? The true number is likely to be much higher.
This Carers Week, we want to raise awareness of the challenges carers face and remind them that their well being matters too.
Do you know someone like this? If so, give them a shout out below. Their commitment, patience, strength and love make a difference in our community every single day.
