IT Officer for London School of Osteopathy and a Carer representative for Maudsley. As you can see, I have many interests shown off my blog. I hope to keep it updated with posts and more things to come soon.
Community is a word we hear often, but its true meaning and significance can sometimes be overlooked. At its core, a community is a network, a web of relationships built on shared identity, common themes, and mutual trust. Communities are formed when people come together, united by a sense of belonging and shared responsibility. This sense of belonging is not just about being part of a group; it’s about feeling valued, having a purpose, and working towards common ideals.
This blog is a transcript of the video below.
Communities exist in many forms. The most immediate and intimate is the family, where the seeds of unpaid caring are often sown.
Post By Matthew McKenzie – National Cancer Carer forum
For people living with a serious mental illness (SMI) such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or psychosis, cancer remains one of the leading causes of premature death. In South East London, lung cancer is particularly devastating, with mortality rates highest among this group.
But there’s good news: projects are now underway to change this. Click on poster for more details
Why this matters
Early detection can make all the difference in lung cancer outcomes. Yet too often, people with SMI face additional challenges in accessing screening, diagnosis, and treatment pathways. These barriers can delay care, reduce treatment effectiveness, and ultimately cost lives.
That’s why the South East London Cancer Alliance has partnered with the Woolwich Service Users Project (WSUP) to hear directly from service users about their experiences. The aim is simple but powerful: understand what stands in the way and build solutions that ensure fair and timely cancer care for everyone.
How you can get involved
If you:
Are over 18,
Have a diagnosed serious mental illness,
Have a history of smoking,
Live in South East London (Bexley, Bromley, Croydon, Greenwich, Lambeth, Lewisham, or Southwark),
then your voice could make a real difference.
You may have been referred for lung cancer screening, diagnosed with lung cancer, or spoken to your GP about persistent symptoms like a cough or shortness of breath. Whatever your experience, sharing it can help shape future services.
What to expect
Focus groups (online or in-person in Woolwich) lasting about 90 minutes.
A safe, supportive space to share your experiences with up to five other participants.
Reimbursement for your time (£20–£30 depending on the session) plus refreshments at in-person events.
Confidentiality and anonymity are guaranteed.
When and where
Focus groups will run September – October 2025.
Online via Microsoft Teams.
In person at Woolwich Service Users Project, 107 Brookhill Road, SE18 6BJ.
Deadline to register: 10th October 2025 (but get in touch even if you miss it—support is flexible).
Together we can change the story
Every voice matters. By sharing your experiences, you can help break down barriers to early lung cancer diagnosis and ensure better care for people with serious mental illness.
Because when it comes to cancer care, no one should be left behind.
Would you like me to make this blog more community-facing (warm, story-driven, with lived-experience language) or more professional-facing (for healthcare partners and stakeholders)?
By Matthew McKenzie – Carer poet and Carer activist
On the 18th of September, West Ealing Library once again became a hub of creativity, reflection, and connection as carers gathered for our second poetry workshop. Guided by carer activist and writer Matthew McKenzie, the session offered not just writing prompts, but a safe and supportive space to explore the healing power of words.
Poetry as Expression and Healing
The morning began with Matthew sharing his personal journey from caring for his mother living with schizophrenia, to writing books on mental health and carer experiences, and now using poetry as a tool for both advocacy and self-expression.
For many carers, life can feel isolating, exhausting, and invisible to wider society. Poetry offered participants a way to give voice to those emotions. As I reminded carers, “Poetry gives shape to what’s hard to say” — even if it’s just a few lines scribbled on paper, those words can carry truth, comfort, and even influence change.
On Friday 12th September 2025, I had the privilege of attending Abilities Development’s Awards Night: Celebrating Unpaid Carers at The Grange in London. The event was a moving and powerful reminder of the sacrifices, love, and resilience shown by unpaid carers across our communities.
The event was hosted by founder Dr Karen May, who spoke passionately about the vision to celebrate and support unpaid carers. The evening also included tributes from fellow carers sharing their lived experiences, moving reflections on the sacrifices and strength carers show daily, and recognition from community leaders.
As many of you know, unpaid carers often go unseen, their daily contributions hidden behind closed doors. Yet they carry the heavy responsibilities of looking after loved ones with compassion and strength, often without formal recognition. This event was different, it put carers at the centre, reminding us all that their efforts matter and deserve to be celebrated.
We were given a tour of the facilities available for unpaid carers and their loved ones to us.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of awards and certificates to unpaid carers. Each recipient was honoured with a Certificate of Honour in Caregiving, recognising their unconditional love, tireless dedication, and the invaluable role they play in supporting their loved ones without financial reward or formal recognition.
The evening, attended by the Mayor of Brent and other distinguished guests, was filled with speeches that spoke to the heart of caregiving, its challenges, its emotional toll, but also its incredible strength. One message that stood out was that carers must not forget their own worth and wellbeing. As was beautifully said on the night: “You are important. Take moments for yourself so you can rejuvenate, be well, and stay healthy.”
I was truly honoured to receive a Certificate of Honour in Caregiving myself. This certificate recognised the unconditional love and tireless dedication of carers who, without pay or recognition, give their heart, time, and energy to provide comfort, dignity, and hope. Holding it in my hands was not just a personal moment of pride, but also a reminder of the countless carers whose work too often goes unnoticed
Events like these are not “just another event.” They are opportunities to create legacies and spaces where carers are not only seen but also valued, uplifted, and supported. They are about passing on the message to future generations that caring is not a burden, but a profound act of humanity.
As someone who has long campaigned for carers’ voices, I want to encourage others to support, promote, and attend events like this. Whether it’s through organisations like Abilities Development, local carer networks, or even small community groups, recognising unpaid carers is vital.
To every unpaid carer reading this: you are a quiet hero. Every sleepless night, every whispered prayer, every act of kindness you show it matters. You matter.
Carers can book to use The Grange by contacting Abilities Development directly. Whether it’s for a quiet space to reflect, joining a carers’ group, or making use of tailored support services, The Grange offers a safe environment built around compassion and community.
By Matthew McKenzie – Facilitator of national ethnic carer forum
Black History Month 2025 is not far behind, this blog celebrates the spirit of “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.” The video. hosted by Matthew McKenzie, founder of the National Ethnic Mental Health Carer Forum invites viewers on a reflective and inspiring journey through history, identity, and purpose.
Unpacking the Theme: Power and Pride
“Power” in Black History Month isn’t about titles, it’s about leadership that uplifts communities, resistance that shapes policy, and vision that transcends obstacles. From political trailblazers to artists and educators, Black leaders have transformed the narrative of equity.
“Pride” stands for cultural identity, heritage, and the vibrant legacy of Black excellence across generations. It pulses through art, storytelling, music, and traditions that echo forward. This month invites us to embrace that heritage without reservation or apology.
Call to Action: Watch, Reflect, and Share
We invite you to watch the video, reflect on its message, and share it widely. Encourage your community. friends, family, colleagues to stand firm in their own power and pride. Let’s amplify these voices and build bridges toward an inclusive future.
Commemorating Groundbreaking Milestones
This year holds special significance:
The 60th Anniversary of the Race Relations Act — a pivotal moment in Britain’s legislative effort to combat racial inequality.
Remembering Malcolm X — whose courage and conviction continue to inspire global movements for justice.
The 80th Anniversary of the Fifth Pan-African Congress — where visionaries like W. E. B. Du Bois, Kwame Nkrumah, and Amy Ashwood Garvey united to confront colonial oppression.
Honouring Paul Stephenson OBE — leader of the 1963 Bristol Bus Boycott.
Honouring Lord Herman Ouseley — instrumental in advancing Britain’s approach to institutional equality.
Their legacies reinforce that our present progress is rooted in collective courage and unwavering solidarity.
Why This Matters for Mental Health and Carers
At the core of the National Ethnic Mental Health Carer Forum’s mission is the recognition that cultural heritage and identity are integral to wellness and caregiving. It’s a call to action. It urges us to:
Break down barriers that impact mental health support.
Cultivate environments where cultural pride is part of healing.
Celebrate carers, families, and communities who carry resilience forward every day.
I hope the month brings us together, brings communities together to celebrate black history. Thanks for reading.
Added by Matthew McKenzie (Facilitator of National Cancer Carer Forum)
St George’s Hospital is looking for compassionate and friendly volunteers to support patients in the Ruth Myles Day Unit and Trevor Howell Day Unit.
SONY DSC
The cancer day units are always busy, and a warm smile or a listening ear can make a world of difference for patients and their families. As a Cancer Outpatient Support Volunteer, you’ll play an important role in creating a welcoming, supportive environment during what can be a difficult time.
What will you do as a volunteer?
Welcome and reassure patients and their families when they arrive.
Offer refreshments and help with lunches.
Accompany patients to other departments if needed.
Keep waiting areas tidy and well stocked with patient information leaflets.
Share information about local support services and the Macmillan Information and Support Centre.
Provide comfort, conversation, and a listening ear to those waiting for or undergoing treatment.
What St Georges are looking for
Volunteers aged 18+ with a positive, helpful attitude.
Good listening and communication skills, with sensitivity towards patients.
An interest in supporting people affected by cancer.
A regular commitment of three hours once a week (morning or afternoon), for at least six months.
Full training and ongoing support are provided, and you’ll be part of a caring team that values your contribution.
Why volunteer with St Georges Cancer Units?
Make a real difference in the lives of people affected by cancer.
Meet new people and be part of a supportive team.
Learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a healthcare setting.
Macmillan Cancer Information & Support Centre (for cancer-related volunteer roles)
Location: St George’s Hospital, Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0QT
If you’d like to give your time, compassion, and energy to support people during their cancer journey, consider becoming a Cancer Outpatient Support Volunteer.
by Matthew McKenzie – National Ethnic Mental Health Carer Forum Chair
In August, the online National Ethnic Mental Health Carer Forum came together once again to confront difficult but necessary conversations about systemic racism, discrimination, and the experiences of ethnic minority carers within health and social care. The forum, hosted by Matthew McKenzie, provided a platform for carers, professionals, and researchers to share insights, frustrations, and plans for change.
Focus on Racism and Discrimination
This month’s forum was unflinching in its focus: racism in health and mental health systems. Attendees shared powerful testimonies of racial abuse and discrimination, highlighting how these experiences undermine trust in services and affect both carers and those they support. There was a clear call for honesty – participants stressed the importance of naming racism directly, rather than disguising it behind euphemisms.
The group also discussed the overrepresentation of Black and brown people in prisons, the lack of tailored initiatives for older Black carers, and the persistent inequalities faced by ethnic minority families trying to navigate mental health and social care support.
Research and Evidence from Carers Trust
A key presentation came from Andrew of Carers Trust, who shared research into the barriers faced by Black, Asian, and minoritised ethnic carers. The findings highlighted widespread issues: discrimination, language barriers, lack of cultural competence, and difficulties in accessing benefits. Andrew emphasised the need for culturally inclusive services and stronger outreach strategies, while acknowledging feedback from the forum that research and advocacy must be explicit about racism rather than avoiding the term.
Andrew expanded on the importance of equity in benefit advice, pointing out that many carers miss out on their entitlements because information is inaccessible, overly complex, or not communicated in culturally relevant ways. He called for dedicated advice services that are not only multilingual but also sensitive to carers who may not self-identify as such.
He also spoke about the impact of social isolation on carers from ethnic minority backgrounds, who often have fewer support networks and face stigma within their own communities. Addressing this requires building trust with local organisations and ensuring carer support is visible in spaces where communities already gather, such as faith centres or community hubs.
Finally, Andrew outlined the Carers Trust’s national strategy, which involves working more closely with local carer organisations, producing research that amplifies marginalised voices, and lobbying for systemic reforms. He highlighted how this forum’s feedback directly shapes their advocacy, showing a real commitment to partnership.
Questions raised during Carers Trust’s presentation:
How can Carers Trust ensure its research explicitly names racism rather than using softer language?
What specific support can be offered to carers who do not self-identify as carers and miss out on benefits?
How can Carers Trust improve its complaints handling processes, particularly for carers facing racism and discrimination?
What role can MPs and lobbying groups play in supporting Carers Trust’s advocacy for ethnic minority carers?
How will Carers Trust ensure its multilingual materials are distributed widely enough to reach isolated communities?
Hampshire & Isle of Wight NHS Anti-Racism Initiatives
Usually NHS Mental Health trust representatives update on anti-racism initiatives at the forum. This time Hampshire and Isle of Wight engaged with minority carers.
Elton who is the Diversity and Inclusion Partner from Hampshire and Isle of Wight NHS Trust provided an update on their anti-racist programmes, including the rollout of the Patient and Carer Race Equality Framework (PCREF). The trust has begun implementing cultural competence training, engaging with local communities, and embedding anti-racism into its wider mental health services. While early in its journey, the trust is already seeing changes in communication and engagement across different wards and services.
Elton shared that the trust is actively developing training modules on implicit bias, with the aim of reaching every staff member across its services. This training is intended not as a one-off exercise but as part of a sustained culture change programme. Early feedback from staff has been encouraging, with more frontline workers recognising how unconscious bias can influence treatment decisions.
He also described the trust’s efforts to engage directly with service users and carers, ensuring that their lived experiences feed into decision-making. Listening events, surveys, and advisory panels are being used to capture diverse perspectives, with a particular focus on groups who historically felt excluded from consultation.
In addition, Elton emphasised the need for transparency and accountability. The trust will publish regular updates on its PCREF action plan, allowing communities and stakeholders to scrutinise progress. He acknowledged that this is just the beginning, but stressed that embedding anti-racism into healthcare systems requires openness, humility, and sustained commitment.
Participants raised questions about how these initiatives address specific groups, such as older Black carers and prisoners’ families, as well as concerns about public misconceptions of anti-racism work. Elton acknowledged these challenges and committed to following up with colleagues on gaps raised during the discussion.
Questions raised during NHS Trust’s presentation:
How will PCREF specifically address the needs of older Black adults who often feel invisible in services?
What is being done to support the mental health of prisoners (e.g. Albany and Parkhurst prisons) and their families within this anti-racist framework?
How will the trust prevent the public misconception that PCREF “excludes” white people?
What mechanisms are in place to ensure transparency and accountability in publishing progress updates?
How will the trust measure the long-term impact of cultural competence and implicit bias training?
Academic Research Contributions
The forum also heard from Shylet, a PhD researcher from University of Glasgow, who is focusing on learning disabilities. She presented her work on the lived experiences of Black African families caring for adults with learning disabilities, and invited participants to take part in interviews. Their contributions highlighted the importance of academic research in documenting and amplifying carers’ lived realities.
Another important theme was the financial challenges facing carers. The group discussed the complexity of benefits like Carer’s Allowance and how misinformation or fear of losing other entitlements often deters carers from claiming support. A carer expressed reluctance to claim due to concerns about how it might affect their relative’s benefits, while another highlighted the importance of valuing one’s own contribution and recognising caring work. There was frustration with bureaucratic systems that seem designed to exclude, particularly when layered with the additional barriers of language, culture, and discrimination.
Carers also highlighted the immense value of unpaid care, with estimates placing its worth at over £180 billion per year if it were to be paid for by the NHS. This figure underscored the urgent need for better recognition and support of carers’ contributions.
Strengthening Complaints and Accountability
There was a debate around how carers can raise complaints when faced with racism or poor treatment. Many participants expressed a lack of trust in formal systems like the CQC or Ombudsman, feeling that complaints disappear into bureaucracy without change. Suggestions included working with MPs, lobbying groups, or the media to ensure voices are heard.
Final Reflections
The August forum showed once again how necessary it is to hold these difficult conversations. Carers spoke bravely about racism and exclusion, professionals shared updates on anti-racist strategies, and researchers sought to bring lived experience into policy. Yet the message was clear: systemic change requires more than frameworks and research reports. It requires honesty, collaboration, and persistence.
As host, I was encouraged by the passion and determination in the room. The forum continues to grow as a national voice for ethnic minority carers, and our commitment to addressing racism head-on remains at the heart of this work.
The meeting facilitated by Matthew McKenzie began with introductions from participants and updates on various carer support initiatives, including forum mergers and NHS plan changes.
Local council strategies and initiatives were discussed across different boroughs, with particular focus on Lambeth and Southwark’s carer support plans and the development of a carer’s forum in Lewisham. The group explored challenges faced by carers, including access to primary care and the need for better coordination, while discussing recent conferences and upcoming events aimed at supporting and advocating for carers’ rights.
Lewisham Carers Strategy and Service Updates
Lewisham is currently refreshing its Carers Strategy to strengthen support for unpaid carers and improve access to local services. The focus is on ensuring carers are included in decision-making through co-production and collaboration with the council, health providers, and community organisations. A major priority is improving well-being services, providing better information, and ensuring carers know their rights under the Carers Leave Act.
As part of wider NHS reforms, Lewisham is moving towards a neighbourhood-based care model designed to bring services closer to local communities. While this aims to make access more seamless, carers raised concerns about inconsistent GP access, gaps in communication, and challenges navigating between boroughs when supporting loved ones. The forum highlighted the importance of better coordination between primary care, hospital discharge planning, and mental health services to ensure carers are recognised and supported.
Lambeth Carers Strategy Refresh
Lambeth is currently refreshing its Carers Strategy with the aim of improving services, increasing visibility, and ensuring carers have a stronger voice in decision-making. The updated strategy focuses on key priorities such as well-being, access to assessments, respite options, and workforce training for those supporting unpaid carers.
There was a particular focus on improving support for mental health carers in Lambeth. The Carers Hub Lambeth team continues to facilitate peer support groups and collaborates closely with the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust to ensure carers are recognised as partners in care planning. Initiatives like Triangle of Care are gaining momentum, emphasising better communication between professionals and families while creating pathways for carers to get involved in shaping local mental health services.
Carers Hub Lambeth also celebrated the growing range of community-based activities available for carers and families in Lambeth. Over the summer, there have been several events designed to support young carers, including trips, tours, and group workshops aimed at helping them connect with others and access emotional support. These initiatives are part of Lambeth’s broader goal to make sure younger carers, who are often overlooked, receive the help they need both at home and within education.
One of the key upcoming events for Lambeth carers is the Lambeth Carers Strategy Event taking place on 25th September 2025 at 336 Brixton Road. The session will bring together carers, professionals, and decision-makers to review plans, share ideas, and set priorities for the future. Carers are strongly encouraged to attend to ensure their voices are heard and to take part in shaping the borough’s action plans moving forward.
Southwark Council Carers Support and Strategy Group
Matthew fed back on how Southwark Council continues to strengthen its approach to supporting unpaid carers, with a growing emphasis on improving access to information, assessments, and respite services.
The Unpaid Carers Strategy Refresh is a project running from August 2025 to April 2026, led by Southwark Council in collaboration with Adult Social Care, the NHS, local voluntary groups, and unpaid carers themselves. The plan focuses on improving support for carers by updating evidence on local needs, strengthening engagement with seldom-heard groups, and mapping gaps in current services.
Key priorities include better access to respite care, enhanced referral pathways, stronger partnerships with health services, and improved inclusion of young carers, carers with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ carers. The initial phase, from August to October, involves reviewing existing strategies, mapping current services, gathering insights through focus groups and surveys, and benchmarking against national policies and neighbouring boroughs.
The forum highlighted the importance of co-production, ensuring that carers are actively involved in shaping local strategies and service priorities.
Update on Key Themes from the final NHS England Carers Conference
Matthew highlighted that the 2025 NHS England carers conference placed a strong emphasis on recognising unpaid carers as essential partners in delivering effective healthcare. The NHS stressed its commitment to involving carers in shaping services and policies, ensuring their voices are reflected at every stage of decision-making. There was a clear acknowledgement that without unpaid carers, many health and social care systems would face significant pressure.
You can watch the conference below.
A major focus was on the NHS’s shift towards neighbourhood-based care models designed to bring services closer to communities. Matthew explained that this change aims to improve coordination between GPs, hospitals, and mental health services, but he also highlighted concerns raised about fragmented communication and the risk of carers being left out of local planning. Carers at the conference called for better access to information and more joined-up pathways across boroughs.
The conference also featured interactive workshops and discussion groups focused on co-production, digital innovations, and addressing inequalities among carers. Specific sessions explored improving support for young carers, carers from minority backgrounds, and those supporting loved ones with mental health needs. The event closed with a call to action for stronger collaboration between carers, NHS teams, local authorities, and community organisations. Attendees were encouraged to get involved in upcoming forums and engagement opportunities to help shape future services and ensure carers’ voices are at the heart of decision-making.
Matthew shared updates on national policy developments discussed at the conference, including the Carers Leave Act and commitments to expanding access to respite, assessments, and flexible working rights. There was also a discussion about new digital tools and support platforms designed to make it easier for carers to connect with professionals and access resources. However, many attendees expressed concerns that these initiatives need proper funding and training to work effectively in practice.
The Urgent Need for Digital Skills Among Unpaid Carers
Unpaid carers who provide support to family members, friends, or neighbors with long-term health conditions are the backbone of many communities. Their work is often invisible, yet it is essential for the well-being of countless individuals. As healthcare systems rapidly digitize, the landscape of caregiving is undergoing a profound transformation. Unpaid carers now face the challenge of adapting to new technologies, digital platforms, and online resources that are becoming integral to the delivery of care.
This blog explores why technical and digital skills are no longer just optional for unpaid carers. The blog is also a transcript of matthew’s video below.
Drawing on insights from matthew’s experience as an unpaid carer & IT professional and advocate for carers, we delve into the practical reasons behind this shift, the opportunities and challenges it presents, and the future trends that will shape caregiving in the years to come.
The Changing Face of Caregiving
Digitization in Healthcare
Healthcare is moving online at an unprecedented pace. Electronic health records, telehealth platforms, wearable health devices, and digital prescriptions are becoming the norm. The reasons are clear: digitization streamlines processes, reduces costs, and enables real-time access to critical health data. For unpaid carers, this means that many aspects of their role now require interaction with digital tools.
The Role of Carer Centers
Local carer centers have traditionally been the first point of contact for those seeking support. As these centers will play a crucial role in helping carers acquire the skills needed to navigate the new landscape. Online training, virtual support groups, and digital resource libraries are just some of the ways carer centers are evolving.
Overcoming Barriers to Digital Inclusion
Challenges Faced by Carers
Not all carers are comfortable with digital environments. Some may lack the means to access technology, while others face disabilities that make using digital platforms difficult. For example, visual impairments can pose significant challenges. It’s important for carer centers and support organizations to recognize these barriers and provide alternative solutions where possible.
The NHS 10-Year Plan
Digitization is at the heart of the NHS’s long-term strategy. Unfortunately, unpaid Carers who fail to meet the demand for digital skills may find themselves excluded from essential services and support. Embracing technology is not just about keeping up, it’s about empowering carers to meet the needs of those they support with confidence and efficiency.
Conclusion
The digitization of healthcare is transforming the role of unpaid carers. Technical and digital skills are now essential for accessing resources, coordinating care, and advocating for loved ones. While the transition may be challenging, it offers opportunities for greater efficiency, independence, and empowerment.
If you are an unpaid carer, now is the time to invest in your digital skills. Seek out training, connect with support networks, and take advantage of the tools available. Your role is vital, and with technology on your side, you can continue to make a difference in the lives of those you care for.
By Matthew McKenzie – Carers UK volunteer & Ambassador
As a poet and carer of lived experienced, I always try and listen to other poets when I get the chance.
So on Tuesday 19 August 2025, I had the pleasure of attending the Carers UK Poetry Competition 2025 Celebration at the National Poetry Library, located on Level 5 of the Royal Festival Hall at London’s Southbank Centre.
Carers UK staff were welcoming guests, carers and poets who contributed to the Carers UK Poetry anthology to the event.
The event, hosted by Carers UK and led by Michael Shann, Head of Carer Support, which marked a very special milestone: the organisation’s 60th anniversary. It was an evening of reflection, creativity, and celebration, bringing together carers, poets, supporters, and friends to honour the voices of those who care for others.
For the year 2025, the poetry competition was themed “Caring, Family and Community”, with more than 270 entries submitted from across the country. The anthology launched on the night, Caring, Family and Community, where beautiful collection of poems capturing the emotions, challenges, and deep humanity at the heart of caring.
The programme included readings of winning, highly commended, and shortlisted poems. The anthology also features a preface by Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, and a foreword by Cheryl Moskowitz, Lead Competition Judge 2025.
The atmosphere at the National Poetry Library was warm and I was welcomed by many of the Carers UK team including Carers Scotland. Guests and poets enjoyed celebratory drinks and canapés while engaging in conversations about poetry, caring, and the power of creative expression.
The poetry book itself is thoughtfully arranged, beginning with featured poems before moving on to the winning, highly commended, and shortlisted entries, and ending with notes on the contributors. The poets performed their poems, each highlighting a different perspective on caring, family, and community, weaving together diverse voices into a powerful collective story.
One poem that particularly stood out to me was “Heart & Soul” by Alison Hull.
Heart and Soul by Alison Hull
Even though it’s new to me, I’m going to write a poem. I don’t know what to write, Or where it’s even going. But what I’m very clear of, Is you’ve taught me like no other. You make me very proud, To be your carer and your mother. We laugh at times and cry so much, And we’ve learnt a thing or two. I’ve met your needs, calmed your fears, Taken care of you. Little by little we get things done, Although it isn’t always easy. We take small steps, sometimes none, Resting up, If needs be. Your bravery inspires me, Your love for animals too. I try to understand, how life really is for you. The caring role’s a huge one, It can be isolating too. It helps to connect with others, Who know what we’re going through. So this is the end of my poem, But not of my caring role. That journey will continue, With all of my heart and soul.
When Alison recited it that evening, I felt it was clear that she spoke from the heart. Her words captured the tenderness and strength of caring. I felt the poem was well crafted.
For me personally, as a Carers UK volunteer and poet, it was inspiring to see how words can bring people together and shine a light on the experiences of carers.
Being able to attend, listen, and celebrate alongside others who share a passion for both caring and poetry was a privilege, so I was very thankful to be invited.
The Southbank Centre, with its iconic Royal Festival Hall, provided the perfect backdrop a cultural hub alive with creativity and community spirit.
Events like this remind us not only of the importance of caring, but also of the importance of telling our stories. Poetry gives voice to what can sometimes be invisible, and Carers UK continues to ensure those voices are heard.
I’d like to thank Michael Shann and the Carers UK team for organising such a meaningful evening, and for their ongoing commitment to supporting carers across the UK.
Here’s the updated section with the official website link included:
Becoming a Member of Carers UK
If you are a carer yourself, one of the most valuable steps you can take is to become a member of Carers UK. Membership is free and open to anyone caring for a family member, friend, or neighbour. By joining, you’ll gain access to:
A supportive community of carers who truly understand what you’re going through.
Regular updates, newsletters, and information on carers’ rights and support.
Invitations to events, workshops, and opportunities to share your story.
Resources and guidance to help you manage the challenges of caring.
Carers UK is not just an organisation as it’s a lifeline for many. By becoming a member, you can feel more connected, supported, and empowered in your caring role.
You can sign up easily via the Carers UK website: www.carersuk.org
A Caring Mind 