About the Forum: The Lewisham, Lambeth & Southwark Carers Forum is a collaborative online space that brings together unpaid carers, carer leads, mental health professionals, and support organizations to share experiences, raise concerns, and influence change. Focused primarily on mental health caregiving, the forum serves as a platform for peer support, policy updates, training insights, and service development. Led by carer advocate Matthew McKenzie, the group fosters empowerment through regular discussions, creative expression, and co-produced solutions, ensuring carers’ voices are heard across local systems and beyond.
Carers Week Collaboration Discussion
The meeting began with introductions from Matthew McKenzie, who leads a merged online carers group, and other participants including Yvonne, a carers navigator at Southwark Carers, and Margaret, a carer representative with the Royal College of Psychiatrists. The group discussed Carers Week activities and their various roles in supporting carers across different organizations. Karen Hooper, connected with the Lambeth Living Well Collaborative, while Lee Roach, the carers lead for South London & Maudsley in Lambeth, shared his involvement with the Trustwide Family and Carers Committee.
Understanding Learning Disability Week: A Time to See, Value, and Empower
Learning Disability Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness, promoting understanding, and challenging the stigma surrounding learning disabilities. Each year, this important week brings together individuals, families, carers, organizations, and communities to celebrate the achievements of people with learning disabilities and to advocate for a more inclusive society. The 2025 theme, “Do You See Me?”, calls on everyone to look beyond labels and truly recognize the unique individuals behind them, as well as the invaluable contributions of those who support them.
Before continuing reading my blog, you can watch the video version below
The Importance of Learning Disability Week
I feel Learning Disability week is a time to reflect on the progress made, the challenges that remain, and the collective responsibility we all share in creating a society where everyone is seen, heard, and valued. The week is proudly led by Mencap, a national charity at the forefront of learning disability advocacy, providing resources, easy-read guides, and campaigning materials to help spread the message far and wide.
Mencap works in partnership with local authorities, NHS trusts, and other charities such as Choice Support, Kids, Brandon Trust, and KeyRing. The campaign is also championed in the media by organizations like The Big Issue and supported by community groups, carers, and arts organizations. This collaborative approach ensures that the message of inclusion and empowerment reaches as many people as possible.
The Theme: “Do You See Me?”
Looking Beyond the Label
The 2025 theme, “Do You See Me?”, is a powerful call to action. It asks us to look beyond the diagnosis or label of “learning disability” and to see the person—their talents, ambitions, and unique voice. People with learning disabilities are artists, colleagues, friends, athletes, and advocates. They are individuals with dreams, skills, and stories to share.
Too often, society focuses on what people with learning disabilities cannot do, rather than celebrating what they can achieve. This year’s theme challenges us to change that narrative. It’s about recognizing the whole person and valuing their contributions in every aspect of life.
Recognizing Unpaid Carers
Behind many individuals with learning disabilities are unpaid carers being parents, siblings, young carers, friends, and loved ones—who provide essential support, often with little recognition. These carers play a vital role in the lives of those they support, helping them to navigate daily challenges, access services, and pursue their goals. Learning Disability Week is also a time to acknowledge and celebrate the dedication and resilience of these carers.
The Aims of Learning Disability Week
Celebrating Achievements
One of the central aims of Learning Disability Week is to celebrate the achievements of people with learning disabilities. Whether it’s excelling in the arts, sports, advocacy, or everyday life, these accomplishments deserve to be recognized and applauded. By sharing success stories, we can inspire others and challenge stereotypes.
Raising Awareness of Challenges
While there is much to celebrate, it’s also important to acknowledge the challenges that people with learning disabilities face. These can include barriers to education, employment, healthcare, and social inclusion. Learning Disability Week provides a platform to highlight these issues, share lived experiences, and advocate for change.
Sharing Good Practice and Improving Services
Learning Disability Week is an opportunity to share examples of good practice and to learn from one another. By highlighting innovative approaches and successful initiatives, we can help improve services and support for people with learning disabilities. This collaborative spirit is essential for driving progress and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Campaigning for Equality and Inclusion
At its core, Learning Disability Week is about campaigning for equality and inclusion. It’s about challenging discrimination, breaking down barriers, and creating a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. This requires ongoing advocacy, partnership working, and a commitment to listening to the voices of people with learning disabilities and their carers.
The Power of Creativity and Self-Expression
Art as a Tool for Empowerment
Art and creativity play a vital role in self-expression, particularly for individuals with learning disabilities. Through painting, music, dance, storytelling, and poetry, people can communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in powerful ways. Creative activities provide a platform for individuals to tell their stories, build confidence, and connect with others.
For many, art is not just a hobby, it’s a means of empowered communication. It allows people to express themselves on their own terms, to challenge stereotypes, and to showcase their talents. Arts organizations and community groups play a crucial role in providing opportunities for creative expression and in promoting the work of artists with learning disabilities.
Poetry and Storytelling
Poetry and storytelling are particularly powerful forms of self-expression. They allow individuals to explore themes that are important to them, to share their experiences, and to connect with others on a deep and personal level. By encouraging and supporting creative expression, we can help people with learning disabilities to find their voice and to be heard.
How to Get Involved
Celebrate Achievements
Take time during Learning Disability Week to celebrate the achievements of people with learning disabilities. Share stories, highlight successes, and recognize the contributions that individuals make to their families, communities, and society as a whole.
Share Resources and Raise Awareness
Use your voice and your platform to share resources, raise awareness, and challenge stigma. Whether it’s through social media, community events, or conversations with friends and colleagues, every action counts. Mencap and other organizations provide a wealth of resources, including easy-read guides and campaign materials, to help you get started.
Support Campaigns for Better Services
Support campaigns that advocate for better healthcare, education, and social services for people with learning disabilities. Organizations like Mencap and NHS trusts are working hard to raise awareness and improve services, but they need the support of the wider community to drive change.
Donate and Volunteer
If you are able, consider donating to organizations that support people with learning disabilities and their carers. Your contribution can help fund vital services, advocacy, and creative projects. Volunteering your time and skills is another valuable way to make a difference.
Attend Events and Webinars
Many local authorities, charities, and community groups organize events and webinars during Learning Disability Week. These provide opportunities to learn more, connect with others, and get involved in the campaign. Check out local listings and online resources to find events in your area.
Continue the Conversation
Learning Disability Week may only last for seven days, but the need for awareness, advocacy, and inclusion is ongoing. Even if you discover the campaign after the official week has ended, you can still play a part in celebrating the contributions of people with learning disabilities and supporting their rights.
The Role of Community and Collaboration
Working Together for Change
Creating a more inclusive society requires collaboration. Local authorities, NHS trusts, charities, community groups, carers, and individuals all have a role to play. By working together, sharing knowledge, and supporting one another, we can drive meaningful change.
The Importance of Visibility
Visibility is key to challenging stigma and promoting inclusion. When people with learning disabilities are seen and heard when their stories are shared and their achievements celebrated it helps to break down barriers and change perceptions. The “Do You See Me?” theme is a reminder that everyone deserves to be recognized and valued.
The Ongoing Journey Toward Inclusion
Building a Society Where Everyone Belongs
Learning Disability Week is a milestone in the ongoing journey toward a more inclusive society. It’s a time to reflect on how far we’ve come, to celebrate progress, and to renew our commitment to equality and inclusion. But the work doesn’t end when the week is over. It’s up to all of us to continue advocating for change, supporting one another, and building a world where everyone belongs.
The Power of Advocacy
Advocacy is at the heart of Learning Disability Week. Whether you are a person with a learning disability, a carer, a professional, or an ally, your voice matters. By speaking out, sharing your experiences, and supporting campaigns, you can help to create a society where everyone is seen, heard, and valued.
Resources and Further Information
Where to Find Support and Get Involved
If you want to learn more about Learning Disability Week, get involved in campaigns, or access resources, there are many organizations that can help:
Here’s your version with links included for each of the main organisations — ready for web, LinkedIn, or video descriptions:
Community Groups and Arts Organisations: These groups including disability arts initiatives like DaDaFest and local community networks offer opportunities for creative expression and community involvement.
Check the official websites and social media channels of these organizations for the latest information, events, and resources.
Conclusion
Learning Disability Week is a powerful reminder of the importance of seeing, valuing, and empowering people with learning disabilities. It’s a time to celebrate achievements, raise awareness of challenges, and advocate for a more inclusive society. By supporting campaigns, sharing resources, and promoting creativity and self-expression, we can all play a part in building a world where everyone is seen, heard, and valued—not just during Learning Disability Week, but every day of the year.
Let’s continue to work together, challenge stigma, and create opportunities for everyone to shine. Happy Learning Disability Week 2025!
The Power of Poetry and Storytelling in the Lives of Carers
Caring for a loved one with mental health challenges or chronic illness is a journey marked by both hardship and hope. Too often, the voices of carers those who provide unpaid, tireless support are overlooked in the broader conversation about health and wellbeing. Yet, as this moving gathering of carers and poets reveals, storytelling and poetry can be transformative tools for connection, healing, and advocacy. So it was an honour to host our first poetry event at Cygnet Churchill for the 13th of June during Carers Week 2025
This Blog explores the themes, experiences, and creative expressions shared by carers, drawing from a vibrant community event centered on poetry, storytelling, and the lived realities of those who care. Through their words, we gain insight into the emotional landscape of caring, the challenges faced, and the resilience that emerges when stories are shared.
To watch the performance, please view the video below.
Giving Carers a Voice: The Motivation Behind the Book
The host of the event was myself (Matthew McKenzie), as a prolific author and advocate, where I have dedicated my eighth book to amplifying the voices of mental health carers. For me, books are more than just a means of communication they are a way to reach people who might otherwise remain unheard.
Written by: Matthew McKenzie – WLHT co-facilitator of ethnic carer group and Triangle of Care Community Chair
The Irish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith was filled with warmth and purpose on June 12th, as carers, professionals, and community leaders came together for the West London NHS Trust’s Carers Event in support of Carers Week 2025.
As Chair of the Triangle of Care Community and an involved carer for West London NHS Trust, I was interested in the carers conversations, and sense of solidarity among all those present.
By Matthew McKenzie – Carers UK Volunteer and Ambassador
On Friday 6 June, I had the pleasure of joining Carers Uk and fellow Carers UK volunteers at a picnic in St James’s Park, London a brilliant afternoon full of connection, recognition, and shared purpose. The weather managed to hold “Thank Goodness!”
As a Carers UK volunteer and ambassador, it was great to see so many familiar faces and meet new ones, all united by a commitment to supporting unpaid carers across the UK. The picnic was a chance for us to unwind, share stories, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the park.
One of the highlights of the afternoon was the volunteer awards recognising the time, energy, and dedication that so many of us give. It was humbling to stand alongside other passionate volunteers and celebrate each other’s contributions.
Volunteers’ Week is a vital opportunity to shine a light on the incredible work of volunteers across the country and to say thank you for the real difference they make every day.
Later in the day, we teamed up to distribute Carers UK membership resources around the area, helping to raise awareness and connect more carers to support. You can check the link below to find resources.
I would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who helped organise the event and to those who brought food and drink. Moments like these remind us that we’re not alone in what we do as Carers – we’re part of a caring, committed community.
The meeting focused on carer involvement and representation across different regions, with participants discussing their roles in supporting carers and addressing discrimination. The main focus for this meeting was on “What does good look like?” when it comes to Triangle of Care and PCREF.
The group explored the Triangle of Care initiative and its five key elements, including discussions about medication-related challenges and the need for better communication between healthcare providers and carers. The conversation ended with conversations about improving carer support systems, including the importance of advocacy, training, and creating safe spaces for carers to share concerns confidentially.
By Matthew McKenzie, carer activist Date: May 24, 2025
In an evening charged with truth, courage, and community spirit, Think Tenacity Academy CIC hosted one of the most impactful events of Mental Health Awareness Week 2025. Held at Think Tenacity HQ in Vauxhall and themed #BlackStorytellingCommunity, the gathering was more than a panel or workshop, it was a safe space for healing through shared experience.
The event was led by Bella Rareworld, Think Tenacity’s CEO and a mental health advocate living with bipolar disorder, the event was built on a legacy of ancestral wisdom: “Before slavery, social media, or podcasts, we passed on strength and knowledge through storytelling,” she reminded the audience. “Tonight, we reclaim that legacy not just to speak, but to heal, empower, and connect.”
On May 1st, 2025, Cygnet Health Care hosted its landmark Co-Production in Commissioning Conference at the iconic Villa Park, Birmingham. More than just a professional gathering, the event was a manifesto for a more inclusive, compassionate, and equitable model of care, driven by people with lived experience, carers, clinicians, and commissioners alike.
Packed with powerful keynotes, practical models, and heartfelt stories, the day was as emotionally resonant as it was strategically focused.
Welcome to another blog post from carer activist Matthew McKenzie. Did you know I am a stakeholder member of NHS England’s “Cancer Improvement Collaborative (CiC)” cohort 5? We had our Cancer Experience of Care Improvement Collaborative event, which was held over at Coin Street Neighbourhood Centre on the 5th of March.
The event was to recognise the work carried out by participants who were part of the cohort, these being the Cancer Alliances in England.
CiC Cohort 5 focus is on improving experience of cancer care for patients with a pre-existing condition (mental health, learning disability, autism and dementia) and their families and unpaid carers.
As a carer of lived experience, I was included in welcoming attendees and helping to promote the event. The recognition event was well attended and facilities were excellent. To start off with the event, we had a welcome Carl Shaw (Learning Disability & Autism Adviser NHS England) and Anna Rarity (Cancer Experience of Care Programme Manager of the National Cancer Programme) gave an Introduction to the Cancer Improvement Collaborative, which was easy to follow.
We were provided with a welcome pack which included the agenda for the day, which also included the commonly used Acronyms of the cancer programme.
We then had an introduction of the National Cancer Programme from Jodie Moffat who is the Deputy Director, Policy and Strategy of the NHS Cancer Programme.
Throughout the day there were several Project team presentations from the following
South East London Cancer Alliance East Midlands Cancer Alliance Humber & North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance March Primary Care Network Birmingham & Solihull ICB Blackpool Teaching hospitals North East & North Cumbria Bristol, North Somerset & South Gloucestershire ICB Coventry & Warwickshire
Highlights of the event was watching the carer story to show NHS England’s commitment to carers. Since I focus on unpaid carers, it was good to hear the impact of caring and how the carer managed their role as a cancer caregiver.
Another highlight was on recognising the archievements of Claire Marshall (Experience of Care Lead, Experience & Partnerships Team, People & Communities at NHS England) as she is moving on to another role.
I noticed some of the presentations allowed those with a learning disability or mental health to co-present and be part of the recognition. As the focus should allow those who use the services to co-produce and co-present the successes.
There was also a chance to network with others at the event during Lunch. I noticed some attendees were given different coloured badges to show if they were ok to chat or socialise. We cannot assume everyone is in the best mood to talk as they could be going through painful and stigmatising experiences.
The lunch provided was very good, which included vegan food. I also caught up with a few attendees and representatives from cancer alliances.
There was also a special presentation from the Quality Improvement Team from Great Ormond Street Hospital – Caitlin McGovern and Nuwanthi Yapa Mahathanthila. They presented on how Quality improvement proceeded at the hospital
The last update was from Dr Neil Churchill OBE who is the director for people and communities at NHS England. Neil spoke about the importance of the Cancer Improvement programme, raising awareness and including people’s experiences.
All in all, I found the CiC Recognition event an important way to update those involved in cancer improvement. It is important we include those who go though lived experience of cancer, but especially include those who take that extra step to use their experience to improve cancer care. That being both patient and those providing care.
I would also like to say “Well done” to Marsh Primary Care Network – Kent and Medway on winning the Great Idea Award for their project “Improving Cancer Awareness for Care Home Staff”
As you might already know from my previous blogs. I am now a carer ambassador for Cygnet group. Cygnet is a leading provider of mental health, autism and learning disability services. As a carer I often use my knowledge and experience to provide insight and training over the years.
Some professionals might frown as to why service users and carers might wish to help train staff, but the voice of lived experience should not be ignored. There are many reasons why professionals should include users of services in training staff.
We should note that carers also use services as they seek carer support groups, information about services and sometimes counselling.
We use their services, although professionals are experts for a reason, they spend years training for their profession. They know far more about their field than I would acknowledge, but there is a big difference. Professionals provide a service and we use that service, if those services second guess what we require then this leaves room for errors. To make matters challenging, services do change from time to time and it is so important carers and service users feedback on their experiences.
We all need to work together. In the time of ever deminishing resources, it is a waste of time that patient, professional and carer battle each other to be heard. In the long run, we all wish for health and wellbeing for all of us. Working together means learning from each other.
Professionals can and will make mistakes, so include the voice of lived experience can show professionals are willing to learn from mistakes. These mistakes can come from second guessing what users might require, being pressured in their role or just not paying attention.
There are many more reasons why lived experience should be empowered to help train professionals. So when Cygnet group offered a chance to film my thoughts about carer experience, I jumped at the chance.
The film will be used as an online resource to all staff as I gave my views on the importance of unpaid carers, lived experience and carer advocacy.
I value an organisation that helps provide the voice of patient and care voices.
Those voices help shape how services can be provided and this should be the future of healthcare were we work as a team.
A Caring Mind 