By Matthew McKenzie – Carer UK ambassador and volunteer
As proud volunteer with Carers UK and Carers Trust, and alongside healthcare teams in hospitals supporting unpaid carers and families. I want to take a moment to recognise the incredible contribution volunteers make every single day.
As we celebrate Volunteers’ Week 2026, across our communities, volunteers give their time, skills, compassion, and energy to help others, often without seeking recognition. Their impact is immeasurable.
For me, volunteering is about making a difference, no matter how small. Sometimes it is providing information and advice to a carer who feels overwhelmed. Sometimes it is speaking up for those whose voices are not being heard. Sometimes it is simply listening. These acts of kindness can change lives.
As carers, many of us already give so much of ourselves to support loved ones. Yet volunteering can also be a powerful way to create change, build connections, and strengthen our communities. It reminds us that we are not alone and that together we can make a positive impact.
Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 over in the UK runs from Monday 11 to Sunday 17 May, and the theme is Take Action. I know firsthand how challenging it can be to look after someone while managing your own wellbeing.
Mental Health Foundation is the main charity behind Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK, but there are many other important organisations playing key roles in mental health support, advocacy, treatment and public awareness.
So for the week of this blog, it is a reminder that even small steps can make a big difference, whether it’s checking in on a friend, practicing self-care, or seeking support from local and national organisations.
As a reminder Carers often put themselves last, but protecting your own mental health is essential and taking action starts with acknowledging that you deserve support too.
During this Mental Health Awareness Week, there are many organisations and local NHS carer support services provide invaluable guidance, counselling, and resources for unpaid carers.
The theme is “Every action counts”. From reaching out to your community, to joining peer support groups, to simply taking a moment for yourself.
Watch my video above for practical tips, encouragement, and ways to take action for your mental health and the wellbeing of those you care for.
Let’s work together to make mental health a priority for everyone, today and every day.
Additional Resources for Carers and Mental Health Support
Carers UK – Advice, support, and information for unpaid carers across the UK. https://www.carersuk.org
The Carers Trust – Local carer centres, counselling, respite, and practical support. https://www.carers.org
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.
A Caring Mind 