This week, we come together to recognise something deeply human, yet often hidden: grief and the people who carry it long after the world has moved on.
I’ve created a short video exploring the emotional reality of bereavement, with a special focus on unpaid carers. These are the people who quietly give their time, energy, and love to support someone through illness… and who are often left to grieve in silence when that journey ends.
My hope is that this helps spark conversations, reduce stigma, and remind anyone grieving that you are not alone.
If you or someone you know needs support, these organisations can help:
Let’s work together to make sure every bereaved person, especially unpaid carers so they is heard, supported, and understood. #GrowingWithGrief | #GriefSupport | #UnpaidCarers | #Wellbeing
On Thursday 20th November, I had the privilege of attending and speaking at the Memory, Wellbeing and Brain Health event hosted at Broadfield Community Centre in Crawley. Organised by Carers Support West Sussex, the event formed part of Carers Rights Day, bringing together carers, professionals, community teams, and people living with dementia for a day of learning, connection, and support.
Although I couldn’t stay for the full programme due to travelling to another Carers Rights Day engagement later that afternoon, I was grateful to take part in the early sessions and witness the energy and compassion that shaped the whole day.
On this year’s Carers Rights Day 2025 (Thursday 20 November), the theme is “Know your rights, use your rights.”
If you care for someone, whether it’s a partner, parent, child or friend; you may be missing out on vital support simply because you didn’t realise you have rights as a carer.
In my new video I walk you through what those rights actually are, and how you can use them in practice.
In this video you’ll discover:
Why recognising yourself as a carer matters
Key rights every carer should know (from assessments to flexible working)
How to make use of those rights in your daily life
Where to go for help, guidance and support
Click the link, take two minutes, and empower yourself today.
If you live in the London Borough of Bromley and support someone affected by drug or alcohol misuse as a family member, carer, or friend your experiences matter.
Healthwatch Bromley is conducting important research into how local drug and alcohol services are working for residents. The project aims to understand what’s helping, what’s not, and what needs to change to make services more effective and accessible for everyone.
On World Mental Health Day 2025, learn why mental health support in crises is vital, especially for unpaid carers facing emotional challenges and exhaustion. The blog is a transcript of my video, which you can watch below.
Reflecting on World Mental Health Day: A Call to Action for Crisis Support
Every year, World Mental Health Day serves as a global reminder to pause, reflect, and recommit to caring for ourselves and each other. Observed on October 10th, this day is more than a symbolic gesture as it’s an urgent call to recognize the importance of mental health, especially in times of crisis.
Today, I had the privilege of being part of King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s Mental Health Fair, held on Thursday 2nd October, in recognition of World Mental Health Day 2025.
The event brought together a wide range of organisations and community groups working tirelessly to support the mental health and wellbeing of patients, families, and carers.
Why carers need to be at the heart of mental health conversations
As someone who has cared for a loved one experiencing mental health challenges, I know firsthand the importance of recognising and supporting carers through the groups i run.
Understanding Schizophrenia: Breaking the Silence and Challenging Stigma
Schizophrenia remains one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions, often shrouded in myths, misconceptions, and stigma. As National Schizophrenia Awareness Day took place on July 25th, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the realities of living with schizophrenia, the challenges faced by those affected, and the crucial role of unpaid carers.
This article taken as a transcript from my video delves into the importance of awareness, the lived experiences of individuals and their families, and the collective responsibility to foster understanding and support.
The Significance of National Schizophrenia Awareness Day
National Schizophrenia Awareness Day, observed annually on July 25th in the UK, is more than just a date on the calendar. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness, challenging stigma, and building understanding around schizophrenia which is a condition that affects approximately one in every 100 people in the UK. The day is spearheaded by organizations such as Rethink Mental Illness, Change Mental Health in Scotland, Adared Recovery in Wales, and Mindwise in Northern Ireland. Together, these organizations form Mental Health UK, a collaborative effort to provide vital support and advocacy for those living with schizophrenia and their carers.
What is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition characterized by a range of symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. However, it is essential to recognize that schizophrenia is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. The experience of schizophrenia exists on a spectrum, with each individual’s journey being unique. For some, symptoms may be more pronounced, while others may experience periods of stability and recovery.
Common Symptoms
Hallucinations: Sensing things that are not present, such as hearing voices.
Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs that are not based in reality.
Disorganized Thinking: Difficulty organizing thoughts, leading to incoherent speech or trouble concentrating.
Despite these clinical descriptions, it is crucial to remember that schizophrenia is, above all, a human experience. The condition affects not only the individual but also their families, friends, and communities.
The Human Experience: Beyond the Diagnosis
Too often, the narrative around schizophrenia is dominated by fear, misunderstanding, and negative stereotypes. Individuals living with schizophrenia frequently face stigma, isolation, and discrimination not only just from society at large, but sometimes even within the mental health system and healthcare services themselves. This stigma can be even more pronounced for those from minority groups, compounding the challenges they already face.
The Impact of Stigma
Stigma surrounding schizophrenia can have far-reaching consequences. It can:
Discourage individuals from seeking help or treatment.
Lead to social isolation and exclusion.
Affect employment and educational opportunities.
Create barriers to accessing quality healthcare.
Challenging these misconceptions requires a collective effort to educate the public, promote empathy, and highlight the real stories of those living with schizophrenia.
The Unseen Heroes: Unpaid Carers
While much attention is rightly given to those living with schizophrenia, there is another group whose contributions often go unrecognized—unpaid carers. These are the family members, close friends, partners, and loved ones who provide daily support to individuals with schizophrenia. Their role is both vital and demanding, yet their voices are frequently underrepresented in policy discussions, service planning, and awareness campaigns.
Who Are Unpaid Carers?
Unpaid carers are individuals who, without formal training or compensation, dedicate their time and energy to supporting someone with schizophrenia. This support can take many forms, including:
Emotional Support: Listening, comforting, and advocating for their loved one.
Crisis Management: Staying up late, managing emergencies, and ensuring safety.
Practical Assistance: Helping with daily tasks, medication management, and appointments.
Financial Support: Bearing the costs associated with care, often at personal expense.
The burdens carried by unpaid carers are not just emotional but can also be financial and physical. Despite their critical role, they often receive limited support and recognition.
The Lived Experience of Carers
Many carers, like the speaker’s own mother, navigate the complexities of supporting a loved one with schizophrenia with little guidance or acknowledgment. They become advocates, crisis managers, and emotional anchors, often at the expense of their own well-being. The lack of formal training and support can leave carers feeling isolated and overwhelmed.
Building a Better Future: What Needs to Change
Raising awareness about schizophrenia is not just about increasing knowledge—it is about fostering a culture of care, action, and inclusion. To truly support those affected by schizophrenia and their carers, several key areas need attention.
1. Improving Services and Support
Mental health services must be designed to listen to and address the needs of both individuals with schizophrenia and their carers. This includes:
Accessible Support: Ensuring timely access to mental health services and crisis intervention.
Carer Involvement: Actively involving carers in care planning and decision-making.
Tailored Resources: Providing information, training, and respite for carers.
2. Promoting Inclusive Research
Research into schizophrenia should not only focus on clinical outcomes but also incorporate the experiences of unpaid carers. Their insights are invaluable in understanding the full impact of the condition and in developing effective interventions.
Participatory Research: Engaging carers as partners in research projects.
Holistic Approaches: Studying the social, emotional, and economic effects of schizophrenia on families.
3. Educating the Public
Public education is essential to dispel myths and challenge outdated beliefs about schizophrenia. Awareness campaigns should:
Highlight Lived Experiences: Share real stories from individuals and carers.
Combat Stereotypes: Address common misconceptions and promote accurate information.
Encourage Empathy: Foster understanding and reduce fear and prejudice.
4. Policy and Advocacy
Policymakers must recognize the contributions of unpaid carers and ensure their needs are reflected in mental health policies. This includes:
Carer Rights: Protecting the rights of carers in the workplace and healthcare settings.
Financial Support: Providing financial assistance and benefits to carers.
Representation: Including carers in policy development and service evaluation.
The Power of Awareness: Moving Beyond Knowledge
Awareness is not a passive state, it is an active commitment to care, act, and include others. National Schizophrenia Awareness Day serves as a reminder that understanding schizophrenia goes beyond statistics and symptoms. It is about recognizing the humanity of those affected, valuing the contributions of carers, and working together to create a more inclusive and supportive society.
Taking Action: How You Can Help
Everyone has a role to play in challenging stigma and supporting those affected by schizophrenia. Here are some ways you can make a difference:
Educate Yourself: Learn about schizophrenia from reputable sources and listen to the experiences of those affected.
Challenge Stigma: Speak out against stereotypes and discrimination when you encounter them.
Support Carers: Offer practical help, emotional support, or simply a listening ear to carers in your community.
Advocate for Change: Support policies and organizations that promote mental health awareness and carer rights.
Share Awareness: Use your voice and platforms to spread awareness, especially on days like National Schizophrenia Awareness Day.
Personal Reflections: The Importance of Inclusion
As highlighted in the video, awareness is not just about knowing—it is about caring, acting, and including others. The journey of living with schizophrenia, or supporting someone who does, is often marked by resilience, compassion, and hope. By listening to and amplifying the voices of those with lived experience, we can build a more understanding and supportive world.
The Role of Community
Community support is vital for both individuals with schizophrenia and their carers. Whether through peer support groups, advocacy organizations, or informal networks, connection and solidarity can make a significant difference. Communities that prioritize mental health and inclusion are better equipped to challenge stigma and provide meaningful support.
The Value of Recognition
Recognition of the efforts and sacrifices made by unpaid carers is long overdue. Their dedication sustains individuals and families, often in the face of immense challenges. By acknowledging and supporting carers, we not only improve their well-being but also enhance the quality of care for those living with schizophrenia.
Looking Ahead: Hope and Progress
While the challenges associated with schizophrenia are significant, there is reason for hope. Advances in research, growing public awareness, and the tireless efforts of advocacy organizations are paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive future. By working together—individuals, families, communities, and policymakers—we can break the silence, challenge stigma, and ensure that no one faces schizophrenia alone.
A Call to Action
As National Schizophrenia Awareness Day approaches, let us commit to more than just awareness. Let us strive for understanding, compassion, and action. Whether you are living with schizophrenia, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking to learn more, your voice and efforts matter. Together, we can build a society that values every individual and supports every carer.
Conclusion
Schizophrenia is a complex and deeply human experience, affecting not only those diagnosed but also their families, friends, and communities. National Schizophrenia Awareness Day is a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness, inclusion, and action. By challenging stigma, supporting unpaid carers, and advocating for better services and understanding, we can create a world where everyone affected by schizophrenia is valued, supported, and empowered.
Let us use this day and every day to listen, learn, and act. Share stories, challenge myths, and offer support. In doing so, we honor the resilience of those living with schizophrenia and the dedication of their carers, building a more compassionate and inclusive future for all.
Are you someone living with mental illness or a carer of someone who is or who’s received prescriptions from a pharmacist prescriber? If so, your voice matters.
A new research study led by The University of Manchester is seeking participants to explore how people with mental illness and their carers experience care from pharmacist prescribers in the community. Whether your contact was through your GP practice or a community mental health team, this is your chance to make a difference in the future of mental health services.
Why This Research Matters
Pharmacist prescribers play a growing role in community-based mental health services. They can diagnose conditions, prescribe medication, and adjust treatment all without the immediate involvement of a doctor. But how does this model of care feel from the patient’s or carer’s perspective? That’s exactly what this study wants to understand.
By sharing your experiences, you’ll help shape future services, highlight what’s working, and bring attention to where improvements are needed.
Who Can Participate?
You can take part if you:
Are 18 or older
Live in the UK
Speak fluent English
Have experience with a pharmacist prescriber in a general practice or community mental health team
Carers are also welcome, especially if you provide unpaid support to someone with a mental illness, including help with their medication.
Additionally, the study is interested in hearing from representatives of charities or community organisations who support these individuals.
What Is a Pharmacist Prescriber?
Not sure if you’ve been treated by one? Here’s how you can tell:
They diagnosed a condition you have (mental health or otherwise).
They wrote or changed a prescription for you without needing a doctor’s sign-off.
You may have met them in a GP practice or community mental health setting.
Ready to Contribute?
If you’re interested in taking part, or want to learn more, please contact:
Alcohol Awareness Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of alcohol on individuals, families, workplaces, and society at large. In 2025, the event will run from the 7th to the 13th of July, spearheaded by the charity Alcohol Change UK.
To watch the video version of my blog, see below. The blog is a transcript of the video.
This year’s theme, “Alcohol and Work,” brings a crucial focus to how alcohol consumption affects not just personal health, but also professional performance, workplace relationships, and overall well-being.
The Broader Impact of Alcohol
Alcohol is often viewed through the lens of personal choice and individual health. However, its effects ripple far beyond the person consuming it. The consequences of harmful drinking habits can be seen in diminished work performance, strained relationships, compromised safety, and a decline in mental health. Behind every statistic lies a human story on one that often includes addiction, isolation, and the silent struggles of those who care for someone affected by alcohol dependency.
Alcohol and the Workplace: A Hidden Challenge
The Unseen Effects on Performance and Safety
Alcohol’s impact on the workplace is multifaceted. It can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and even safety risks, especially in roles that require high levels of attention and responsibility. The pressure to perform, long working hours, and high-stress environments can sometimes drive individuals to use alcohol as a coping mechanism. This, in turn, can create a cycle where alcohol use further impairs work performance, leading to more stress and potentially more drinking.
The Human Stories Behind the Statistics
It’s easy to overlook the personal narratives behind the numbers. In the UK, approximately one in four people drink in ways that could be harmful to their health. For some, this escalates into dependency, isolation, and crisis. The journey into alcohol dependency is rarely straightforward or visible. It can be masked by a smile, hidden behind long hours at the office, or dismissed with a casual “I’m fine.” The reality is often much more complex and painful.
The Ripple Effect: Unpaid Carers and Their Silent Struggles
The Burden on Unpaid Carers
One of the most overlooked aspects of alcohol-related harm is its impact on unpaid carers. These are the partners, parents, siblings, friends, and even colleagues who quietly support someone struggling with alcohol dependency. Unpaid carers often juggle their own work and family responsibilities while shouldering the emotional and practical burdens of caring for someone else.
The challenges faced by unpaid carers are immense. Many carry this burden alone, with little support or recognition. They may sacrifice sleep, income, and their own mental health in the process. The emotional strain can be overwhelming, and the lack of support can lead to feelings of isolation and helplessness.
The Need for Recognition and Support
It’s time to shine a light on the pressure, pain, and silence that unpaid carers endure. Their contributions are invaluable, yet they often go unnoticed. Recognizing their struggles and providing them with the support they need is essential, not just for their well-being, but for the well-being of those they care for.
Breaking the Silence: The Power of Conversation
Starting the Conversation
One of the most effective ways to address alcohol-related harm is to start a conversation. Breaking the stigma surrounding alcohol dependency begins with open, honest dialogue. If you’re concerned about someone’s drinking habits, reaching out and expressing your concern can be a powerful first step. Sometimes, simply asking, “How are you doing?” can make a world of difference.
Sharing Resources and Support
In addition to conversation, sharing resources is crucial. Organizations like Alcohol Change UK provide valuable information, helplines, and support services for those affected by alcohol dependency. Sharing these resources, whether it’s a helpful video, a website, or a helpline number which can offer much-needed support to someone in need.
Supporting Unpaid Carers
For those who focus on supporting unpaid carers, it’s important to acknowledge their unique challenges. Offering a listening ear, practical assistance, or simply checking in can provide much-needed relief. Carers often feel invisible, so small gestures of support can have a significant impact.
Raising Awareness: Everyone Has a Role
Online, at Work, and in the Community
Raising awareness about the harms of alcohol and the support available is a collective responsibility. Whether it’s through online campaigns, workplace initiatives, or community events, every effort counts. The more we talk about these issues, the less people will suffer in silence.
Building a Culture of Care
Ultimately, the goal is to foster a culture of care, one where no one has to face addiction or the challenges of caring for someone with addiction alone. By working together, we can reduce the harm caused by alcohol, support one another, and create a more compassionate society.
Practical Steps for Getting Involved
1. Educate Yourself and Others
Understanding the facts about alcohol and its effects is the first step. Visit reputable sources like Alcohol Change UK to learn more about the risks associated with alcohol consumption, the signs of dependency, and the support available.
2. Start Conversations
Don’t be afraid to talk about alcohol and its impact. Whether it’s with friends, family, or colleagues, open dialogue can help break down stigma and encourage those struggling to seek help.
3. Share Resources
Distribute information about support services, helplines, and educational materials. The more accessible these resources are, the more likely people are to use them.
4. Support Unpaid Carers
If you know someone who is caring for a person with alcohol dependency, offer your support. This could be as simple as checking in regularly, offering to help with practical tasks, or encouraging them to seek support for themselves.
5. Advocate for Change
Encourage your workplace or community to participate in Alcohol Awareness Week. Organize events, share information, and promote policies that support those affected by alcohol-related harm.
The Importance of Compassion and Understanding
Recognizing the Human Element
Behind every case of alcohol dependency is a person with a unique story. Compassion and understanding are essential in supporting those affected. Avoid judgment and focus on offering support and encouragement.
The Role of Empathy in Recovery
Empathy can be a powerful tool in helping someone change their relationship with alcohol. Listening without judgment, offering encouragement, and being patient can make a significant difference in someone’s journey to recovery.
The Role of Workplaces in Addressing Alcohol-Related Harm
Creating Supportive Environments
Workplaces have a unique opportunity to support employees affected by alcohol-related harm. This can include providing access to counseling services, promoting work-life balance, and fostering a culture where employees feel comfortable seeking help.
Implementing Policies and Training
Employers can implement policies that address alcohol use in the workplace, provide training for managers on how to support employees, and ensure that support services are readily available.
Encouraging Peer Support
Peer support programs can be effective in helping employees feel less isolated and more supported. Encouraging open dialogue and creating safe spaces for discussion can help break down barriers to seeking help.
The Ongoing Challenge: Reducing Stigma
video from Alcohol Change UK
Why Stigma Persists
Stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to seeking help for alcohol dependency. Many people fear judgment or discrimination, which can prevent them from reaching out for support.
How to Combat Stigma
Education and awareness are key to reducing stigma. By sharing stories, promoting understanding, and challenging misconceptions, we can create a more supportive environment for those affected by alcohol-related harm.
Looking Ahead: Building a Supportive Future
The Importance of Continued Awareness
Alcohol Awareness Week is an important opportunity to shine a light on the challenges associated with alcohol use. However, the work doesn’t end when the week is over. Continued awareness, education, and support are essential in creating lasting change.
Working Together for Change
Change is possible when we work together. By supporting one another, raising awareness, and advocating for better support systems, we can reduce the harm caused by alcohol and build a more compassionate society.
Resources for Support
Alcohol Change UK: alcoholchange.org.uk – A leading charity providing information, support, and resources for those affected by alcohol-related harm.
Helplines and Support Services: Many organizations offer confidential helplines and support services for individuals and carers.
Workplace Support: Check with your employer about available support services, employee assistance programs, and mental health resources.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Alcohol Awareness Week 2025 is a vital opportunity to reflect on the impact of alcohol in our lives, workplaces, and communities. By starting conversations, sharing resources, supporting unpaid carers, and raising awareness, we can make a real difference. Let’s work together to understand the harm that alcohol can cause, support one another, and build a culture of care, because no one should have to face addiction or care for someone with addiction alone.
Let’s make this Alcohol Awareness Week a turning point for greater understanding, compassion, and support.
“Caring feels like towels.” “Smells like sweat.” “Sounds like silence.” These are not lines from a published anthology, but heartfelt expressions from unpaid carers who meet every month in a quiet online space to write, reflect, and reconnect—through poetry.
Welcome to the Ealing Carers Poetry Workshop, an online community gathering for carers, hosted on the last Friday of each month at 6 PM. It’s free, friendly, and, for many, deeply healing.
Why Poetry? Why Now?
For unpaid carers, life is often consumed by routines, responsibilities, and quiet sacrifices. There’s little time to stop and process the emotional weight of the role, let alone articulate it. That’s where poetry comes in.
Poetry doesn’t demand polished grammar or clever rhymes. It simply asks: What do you feel? And from that question, remarkable truths begin to emerge.
In a recent session, one carer described how “caring tastes like sweet and sour”—a vivid metaphor for the moments of tenderness mixed with exhaustion, patience, and the daily challenge of giving so much of oneself.
Another shared, “Caring feels like a balloon… slowly inflating until it might burst.” The group nodded. They understood. No further explanation needed.
More Than Words
Each workshop is a gentle hour of guided prompts, group sharing (if you feel like it), and poetic reflection. Some come to listen. Some come to write. All leave feeling a little more grounded, and a little less alone.
Here’s what you can expect:
Creative prompts to help spark inspiration
No pressure to share if you’re not ready
A safe, confidential space led with empathy
A supportive community that “gets” the highs and lows of caring
Gentle encouragement to save and revisit your poetry as a personal record
One participant put it perfectly:
“You don’t have to be a poet. You just need to be willing to put words to what you feel.”
Healing Through Expression
We often talk about self-care for carers, poetry is one powerful, practical form. It’s a creative release that helps untangle emotions that don’t have easy answers. It can reflect joy, grief, humour, fatigue, hope. It can be messy. It can be raw. But above all, it’s yours.
As the facilitator beautifully says,
“Poetry holds up a mirror. What you see in it is up to you.”
For many carers, this monthly workshop has become a lifeline. A moment of peace. A reminder that their experiences matter.
If you are an unpaid carer, then Join Us – You Are Welcome
Whether you’re new to writing or simply curious, we invite you to take an hour for yourself.
🗓️ When: Last Friday of every month 🕕 Time: 6:00 PM (UK time) 🌐 Where: Online – attend from the comfort of your own home 🎟️ Reserve your free place here: 👉 Ealing Carers Poetry Workshop – Eventbrite
Grab a notebook. Pour a cup of tea. Come write with us.
A Caring Mind 