Celebrating Unpaid Carers in Lewisham
Carers Week (9th – 15th June) is an annual opportunity to recognise the incredible people in our community who care for others, often without recognition or rest. A carer is a person of any age who provides unpaid care and support to a family member, friend or neighbour who is disabled, has an illness or long-term condition or who needs extra help as they grow older.
Carers often help with tasks like shopping, attending appointments, managing medication or providing emotional support. These responsibilities can affect carers’ own health and wellbeing, especially when balancing work, family life or education.
Throughout the week, local support provider Imago hosted a series of events to bring carers together, share support, and signpost helpful services. From morning teas and garden tours to drop-ins and a celebration at Ignition Brewery, the events helped connect carers with each other and with the organisations that are here to support them.
Shanitha and Hilary, carers in Lewisham who attended the Carers Celebration event in the week, said “It is great to celebrate Carers Week and recognise the continuous work we do and the support we need. We have spent a wonderful and fun day with other carers and have met organisations that offer information and support. Thanks to carer services we can keep connected, helping each other with advice and signposting to activities.”
Support for carers in Lewisham
If you’re an unpaid carer in Lewisham, support is available throughout the year.
Imago offers free, confidential support for adult and young adult carers in Lewisham, including regular wellbeing check-ins, help with registering as a carer with your GP, peer support groups and respite opportunities and practical advice about your rights and benefits.
You can also access practical and emotional support for unpaid adult carers and young carers through Carers Lewisham.
Join the Lewisham Council Carers’ Forum – a drop-in forum for unpaid carers on the last Tuesday of every other month. This is a space where anyone cares for a relative or friend can meet other carers, shares whether they’re getting the support they need, and help influence Council decision and services that affect carers. 1pm to 3pm at the Civic Suite, Catford or online. Join or get more information by emailing proudtocare@lewisham.gov.uk.
Help Shape the Lewisham Carers’ Action Plan
Lewisham Council and its health and care partners are developing an updated Carers’ Action Plan for 2025–2028 — and we want to hear directly from unpaid carers of all ages and backgrounds.
Whether you provide care occasionally or every day, your experience matters. Your feedback will help shape how we support carers across Lewisham in the years ahead.
Over the next few months, we’ll be gathering views through forums, interviews, working groups, and a short survey.
Deadline to express your interest: Friday 27 June, 5pm
Complete the expression of interest form
Your voice will help shape a more inclusive, supportive and responsive system for carers in Lewisham.