By Matthew McKenzie – Carer Activist
Recently, I had the privilege of attending and speaking at the West Kent Paddock Wood Group, and I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the experience, not just as a speaker, but as a mental health carer among peers who truly understand the journey.
The session took place at Unit 1 Eastlands, Maidstone Road in Paddock Wood, a welcoming and accessible venue that immediately set the tone for openness and support. From the moment I arrived, it was clear that this was a safe space. The event was hosted by Naomi Muigua who is the Social Care Involvement Officer.
The structure of the morning was thoughtfully organised, with time for introductions, discussion, and shared learning, all underpinned by respect, confidentiality, and equality among attendees .
A Community that works to understand carers
What stood out to me most was the diversity of lived experience in the room. Carers supporting loved ones with dementia, autism, and complex health needs came together, each bringing their own story, challenges, and resilience. It reinforced something I’ve long believed: carers often feel invisible in wider society, but in spaces like this, they are seen, heard, and valued.
The group is supported by organisations and professionals who are genuinely committed to reducing isolation and improving access to services. From digital inclusion to transport and community support, there’s a real effort to make sure carers are not left navigating the system alone
Sharing My Journey as a Mental Health Carer
As the invited speaker, I spoke from my own lived experience as a mental health carer. My journey began as a young carer supporting my mother, who developed schizophrenia, while also helping care for my brothers with non-verbal autism. Over the years, that experience has shaped not only my life, but my purpose.
During my talk, I shared:
- The emotional reality of becoming a carer—often suddenly, without preparation
- The confusion and isolation that can come with navigating mental health systems
- The importance of recognising carers as partners in care, not just bystanders
- The long-term impact on mental health, identity, and wellbeing
I also spoke about the concept of “lived experience”—something I feel strongly should be embedded in health and social care systems. If professionals are to truly understand and support carers, they need to hear directly from those who live it every day.
One of the key messages I left with the group was this:
Carers are the hidden link that holds everything together. Without them, the system simply could not function.
This was taken from my poem off my book.
The Conversations of the group
What made the session particularly powerful wasn’t just the presentation, it was the discussion that followed. Carers openly spoke about:
- Not knowing where to go for help
- The complexity of accessing services
- Feeling that outcomes often depend on how well you can advocate
- The emotional toll of long-term caring
These are not small issues, they are systemic challenges. But spaces like this group allow those conversations to happen honestly, and more importantly, collectively.
Why Groups Like This Matter
The West Kent Paddock Wood Group is actually a lifeline to carers as it provides:
- A supportive peer network
- Access to information and local services
- A platform for carers’ voices to be heard
- A sense of belonging that many carers lack
For anyone who is caring for a loved one, especially in mental health, I cannot stress enough how important it is to connect with others who understand. You don’t have to do this alone.
Final Thoughts
Leaving the session, I felt both humbled and encouraged. Humbled by the strength of the carers in the room, and encouraged by the existence of a group that is actively working to support them.
If you are a carer in Kent, or even just exploring what support is available, I would strongly recommend attending the West Kent Paddock Wood Group. It is a space where your voice matters, your experience is valid, and your wellbeing is recognised.
For me, it was not just an opportunity to speak, it was an opportunity to connect, learn, and continue advocating for carers everywhere.
If you want to find out more about Kent County Council support for unpaid carers, see link below.
A Caring Mind 