Tag Archives: unpaid carers

Alcohol Addiction, Work, and Hidden Carers: Start the Conversation

Understanding Alcohol Awareness Week 2025

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.

NHS Digital Revolution: Empowering Unpaid Carers

The Digital Revolution in the NHS: Why Unpaid Carers Must Be at the Heart of Change

From Matthew McKenzie – Carer activist

Below is a transcript of my video

The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK is undergoing a profound transformation, one that is being described as a technological revolution. With the launch of the NHS 10-year plan, the focus is shifting towards digitization, artificial intelligence, and centralized health information. While these changes promise to streamline care and improve outcomes, there is a critical group whose needs and voices must not be overlooked: unpaid carers.

Unpaid carers which I feel are often family members or close friends often play a vital role in supporting those with long-term health conditions, including mental illness and cancer. Their contributions are immense, yet they are frequently left on the sidelines when it comes to digital innovation in healthcare. This article explores why unpaid carers must be central to the NHS’s digital future, the challenges they face, and the steps needed to ensure they are empowered, included, and supported.

Understanding the Role of Unpaid Carers

The Backbone of Community Care

Unpaid carers are the unsung heroes of the healthcare system. They manage medications, coordinate appointments, provide emotional support, and often handle emergencies. Their work extends far beyond what is visible to the public or even to healthcare professionals. When patients leave hospitals or clinics, it is usually unpaid carers who take on the responsibility of ongoing care at home.

The Double Burden

Caring for someone with long-term illness can be demanding, both physically and emotionally. Many carers juggle multiple roles, often putting their own needs last. The demands of caring can make it difficult to keep up with new technologies or to seek out digital tools that could make their role easier. This invisibility and self-sacrifice can lead to carers being left behind as the NHS moves forward with its digital agenda.

The NHS 10-Year Plan and the Digital Revolution

What’s Changing in the NHS?

The NHS 10-year plan marks a significant shift towards digital healthcare. Key elements include:

Expansion of the NHS App: The NHS app is being developed to allow for easier booking of appointments, prescription management, and access to centralized health information.
Integration of Artificial Intelligence: AI will be used to process the growing volume of health data, supporting healthcare workers in making faster, smarter decisions.
Digital Health Records: Patient records will be digitized and made accessible across services, ensuring continuity of care and reducing the need for patients and carers to repeat their stories to every professional.

The Promise of Technology

Digitization offers many potential benefits for carers. With the right support, technology can:

Reduce waiting times and streamline appointment bookings.
Provide real-time access to health information and test results.
Eliminate the need to repeatedly explain a patient’s history to different professionals.
Help carers stay organized and informed, improving the quality of care they provide.

The Risks of Exclusion

Barriers to Digital Inclusion

Despite the promise of technology, there are significant barriers that can prevent unpaid carers from benefiting:

Digital Literacy: Not all carers are comfortable with technology, and some may lack the skills or confidence to use digital tools effectively.
Access to Devices: Smartphones and other devices capable of running advanced health apps can be expensive, putting them out of reach for many carers who may already be financially stretched.
Design Oversights: Many digital health tools are not designed with carers in mind, focusing instead on patients or healthcare professionals.
Time Constraints: The demands of caring leave little time for carers to research or learn about new digital resources.

The Danger of Being Left Behind

If unpaid carers are not included in the digital transformation, there is a real risk that they will be excluded from important aspects of care planning and decision-making. This could lead to poorer outcomes for both carers and those they support, and ultimately place greater strain on the NHS as a whole.

Making Digital Healthcare Work for Carers

The Need for Training and Support

To ensure carers can benefit from digital innovations, targeted training and support are essential. This could include:

Workshops and Training Sessions: Carer centers and NHS trusts can offer training on how to use digital tools, such as the NHS app.
Recovery Colleges: In the mental health sector, recovery colleges can help upskill carers in using technology to support their loved ones.
Accessible Design: Digital tools should be designed with carers in mind, ensuring they are intuitive and easy to use.

Inclusion in Care Records and Decision-Making

Carers must be recognized and included in digital care records, with appropriate safeguards for confidentiality. This would allow them to:

Be easily identified and referred to support services.
Access relevant health information to better support the person they care for.
Participate in care planning and decision-making processes.

Co-Designing Digital Tools

Carers should have a say in the design and rollout of digital health tools. Their lived experience provides invaluable insights into what works and what doesn’t. Involving carers from the outset can ensure that digital innovations truly meet their needs.

Practical Steps for Carers

Engaging with the NHS App

Carers should be encouraged to explore the NHS app and see how it can support them in their role. This might include:

Booking appointments for the person they care for.
Managing prescriptions and medication reminders.
Accessing up-to-date health information and test results.

Seeking Support and Sharing Feedback

Carers should not hesitate to ask their GP, pharmacist, or local carer organizations about digital options and support. Providing feedback on what works and what doesn’t is crucial for improving digital services.

Building a Community of Support

Carer groups and forums can play a vital role in sharing experiences, tips, and support related to digital healthcare. By working together, carers can help each other navigate the digital landscape and advocate for their needs.

The NHS’s Responsibility: Including Carers in the Digital Future

Recognizing Carers as Partners, Not Visitors

Unpaid carers are not just visitors in the healthcare system as they are integral to its functioning. Their inclusion in the digital revolution is not optional; it is essential for the sustainability of the NHS.

Reducing Pressure on the System

By supporting carers with digital tools and resources, the NHS can help them provide better care, reducing the pressure on hospitals and social care services. Excluding carers would only shift the burden back onto the NHS, undermining the goals of the 10-year plan.

Building Digital Solutions with People at the Center

Technology alone cannot solve the challenges of healthcare. Digital solutions must be built with the people who use them patients, carers, and professionals at the center. This means ongoing dialogue, co-design, and a commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

Looking Ahead: Embracing Change Together

The Constant of Change

Technology is always evolving, bringing both challenges and opportunities. For carers, staying informed and engaged with digital developments is key to ensuring they are not left behind.

Shaping the Future

Carers have a unique opportunity to shape the future of healthcare. By participating in the digital revolution, sharing their experiences, and advocating for their needs, they can help create a system that works for everyone.

A Call to Action

Whether you are a carer, a healthcare professional, or someone interested in the future of the NHS, now is the time to act. Embrace digital tools, seek out training and support, and make your voice heard. Together, we can ensure that the NHS’s digital future is inclusive, effective, and centered on the needs of those who care.

Conclusion

The NHS’s digital revolution holds great promise, but its success depends on the inclusion of unpaid carers. By recognizing their vital role, addressing barriers to digital access, and involving them in the design and implementation of new tools, we can build a healthcare system that is truly fit for the future. Unpaid carers are not just supporting the system they are shaping it. Their voices, experiences, and needs must be at the heart of the NHS’s digital journey.

Institutional Distrust Why Many Ethnic Carers Avoid Formal Services

Understanding the Hidden Struggles of Ethnic Minority Carers
Caring for a loved one with mental illness can come with challenges, but for many ethnic minority carers, the journey is made more challenging by cultural stigma, language barriers, and a deep-rooted mistrust of formal health systems.

These carers often carry immense responsibility behind closed doors, with little recognition or support. Despite their dedication, many avoid reaching out to mental health services—not because they don’t care, but because past experiences have taught them to be cautious, even fearful.

What Is Institutional Distrust and Why Does It Matter?
Institutional distrust refers to the lack of confidence in systems like healthcare, social care, or government services. For ethnic minority carers, this distrust is often grounded in real experiences of discrimination, cultural insensitivity, or the fear of losing control over a loved one’s care.

When services fail to understand or respect a carer’s background, the result is silence and isolation leaving carers to cope alone, without the help they may desperately need.

A Short Video Giving Voice to Unheard Stories
To shed light on this important issue, I’ve created a short video presentation:
“Institutional Distrust: Why Many Ethnic Carers Avoid Formal Services”

This video draws on the voices and lived experiences of unpaid carers, especially those from ethnic minority backgrounds. It explores the emotional weight they carry, the cultural barriers they navigate, and the urgent need for services to become more inclusive, respectful, and culturally aware.

Why Sharing These Stories Matters
If we truly want to support carers from all backgrounds, we must first listen and really listen to what they’re telling us. By naming institutional distrust and understanding its roots, we can begin to rebuild trust and create spaces where carers feel safe to seek help.

Please watch and share the video, and let’s continue the conversation about what real support looks like for ethnic minority carers in mental health.

South West London Mental Health carers group update for June 2025

A Space to Share, a Space to Be Heard

The session opened with updates and heartfelt check-ins. One of our carer members, shared a deeply personal and challenging situation regarding her loved ones declining mental and physical health. Despite strained family dynamics and the emotional burden of caring, a carer is courageously advocating for her loved one and seeking support through nursing services and assessments.

Peer Support: Insights from Experience

Long-time members offered valuable perspectives from their own journeys. A carer shared their struggle supporting individuals, which showed a stark reminder of the emotional and logistical toll caring can take. Another carer encouraged fellow carers to prioritise their own well-being, even in small ways a cup of tea, a short walk, a moment to breathe.

Continue reading →

“Caring Feels Like a Poem”: Inside Ealing Carers’ Monthly Online Poetry Workshop

“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.

Greenwich Mental Health carers forum update June 2025

Why Unpaid Carers Should Join Our Mental Health Carers Forum and Why Oxleas & Our Local Authorities Should Listen

By Matthew McKenzie

Caring for a loved one with mental health needs is a journey full of challenges, isolation, and too often lack of support. That’s why we run a dedicated Mental Health Carers Forum with Greenwich Carers Centre that brings together unpaid carers from across Greenwich and sometimes other boroughs since Oxleas covers Bromley and Bexley.

In our most recent forum, carers opened up about what it’s really like to navigate services and support their loved ones. The message was clear: unpaid carers are doing more than ever often alone and we need to work together to make sure they are not left behind.

The Power of Peer Support

One carer said:

“I’m a sandwich carer — looking after my elderly parents and my daughter with complex needs. Groups like this are a lifeline. It’s a space to share, learn, and recharge.”

For many carers, peer support is one of the few places where they are truly heard. Another participant explained:

“It helps so much to hear from others going through similar things. It’s the only way I know what services are available and what’s changing.”

Challenges That Carers Face

Through the forum, we heard repeated concerns:

Lack of joined-up care between GPs and mental health services
Delays in care planning and assessments — or carers being excluded altogether
Confusing systems — carers are often left chasing up GPs or social workers themselves
Failure to take carers’ expertise seriously in assessments and planning
Emotional strain — many carers at breaking point, needing better respite and emotional support

One mother of three autistic children shared:

“I told them my son cannot tolerate bright light that’s why the curtains were drawn. But the assessor just complained about the curtains and parking. They didn’t listen to what my son really needs.”

Presentation: Advocating for a Loved One During and After Mental Health Crisis

Matthew McKenzie delivered a detailed presentation on how unpaid carers can effectively advocate for their loved ones, particularly around mental health services.

Key points included:

Carers are not just supporters, they are also advocates for their loved ones
Building relationships with key professionals (GP, care coordinator, psychiatrist, social worker) is crucial
Carers should keep records of symptoms, interventions and communications to support advocacy
During a crisis, carers should:
- Stay calm
- Be factual about symptoms and risks
- Be assertive (but respectful) in requests for urgent action
- Request risk assessments and ask for information to be recorded
- Understand confidentiality rights and use carers’ rights under the Care Act
The importance of self-care for carers, advocacy can be exhausting, and carers must seek peer support and breaks
Carers should also use the complaints process and escalate concerns when services fail

A Call to Oxleas NHS and Local Authority

We know big changes are coming, NHS England reorganisations, funding pressures, staff reductions. But one thing won’t change: the system depends on unpaid carers.

That’s why we urge Oxleas NHS Trust and the local authorities to:

✅ Regularly engage with this forum to hear carers’ voices
✅ Ensure carers are meaningfully included in care plans and reviews
✅ Offer more training and support for staff on carer involvement
✅ Improve clarity on who carers can contact in a crisis
✅ Work with us to strengthen co-production, not just in theory, but in practice

As one member put it:

“If the services won’t be there in full anymore — then carers will have to do even more. But we can’t do it if we’re broken.”

Join Us

If you’re an unpaid carer supporting someone with mental health needs, whether you’re new to caring, or have years of experience, please come along.

You’ll find a space to share, learn advocacy skills, and connect with others who truly understand. We also run a peer WhatsApp group, ask if you’d like to join.

Together we are stronger and louder. The more carers attend, the harder it is for services to ignore us.

For more info or to attend the next forum: contact

info@greenwichcarers.org
0300 300 2233

Learning Disability Week 2025: See, Support, Celebrate

By Matthew McKenzie (Carer advocate)

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:

Mencap: The leading charity behind Learning Disability Week, offering resources, guides, and campaign information.

Choice Support: https://www.choicesupport.org.uk, Kids: https://www.kids.org.uk, Brandon Trust: https://www.brandontrust.org, KeyRing: https://www.keyring.org — Charities working alongside Mencap to support people with learning disabilities.

Local Authorities and NHS Trusts: Many local councils (such as Royal Borough of Greenwich, Brighton & Hove City Council) and health services (such as CLCH NHS Trust) organise events and provide support during Learning Disability Week.

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!

Voices of Mental Health Carers: Poetry & Stories

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.

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Cygnet National Carers Event – Carers Week 2025

By Matthew McKenzie, Carer Ambassador, Cygnet Health Care

On Friday 13th June 2025, I had the privilege of attending and speaking at Cygnet Health Care’s National Carers Event, hosted at Cygnet Churchill in Lambeth, London. The event brought together carers, staff, professionals, and advocates to reflect on the vital role of unpaid carers who step up daily out of love, resilience, and responsibility, often with little recognition.

Carers Week is always a powerful reminder that caring touches us all – and Cygnet’s event this year was especially moving and informative. It offered a platform for carers to share their lived experience, influence policy, and strengthen our collective voice.

Agenda Highlights

The day opened with a warm welcome from Laura Sheridan & Shane Mills, setting the tone for a day grounded in empathy and collaboration. We heard from a range of speakers including:

Susan Hartnell-Beavis, sharing practical tools for supporting carers.
Kate Mercer and Carly Ellicott, who both championed carer involvement in care planning and research.
John Bangs OBE, who brought a national perspective on carer rights and policy.
Dr Angela Misra, who tackled the health implications of caregiving.
Julian de Takats and Matthew McKenzie (myself), focusing on empowering carers’ voices.
We also had insights from Dr Henk Swanepoel & Sophie Borg, who presented on collaborative approaches with carers in mental health services.

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West London NHS Carers Event at the Irish Cultural Centre — A Community United

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.

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