Campaign by Story
Carers Week 2026: Building Carer Friendly Communities
Behind Every Person in Need, There’s an Unpaid Carer Who Needs Support Too
Every day, over 5 million people in the UK quietly provide unpaid care for a loved one, friend or neighbour. Many don’t see themselves as carers — they just see it as what you do for family.
But behind that care is responsibility, resilience, and often significant emotional and physical strain.
This Carers Week (8–14 June), Imago is highlighting the reality of unpaid caring and the importance of building communities where carers feel recognised, supported, and less alone.
Can you help us support the people who quietly hold families, friends, and communities together every single day?
We are looking for 30 wonderful individuals to each donate £10, to help us reach our £300 target.
Lily’s Story (Age 13)
Like thousands of young carers across the UK, Lily balances caring responsibilities with school, friendships, and growing up — often without others realising the weight she carries.
At first, I didn’t really think of it as caring — I just wanted to help my brother. Then someone at school told me I was a young carer, and I realised that’s actually a real thing.
Lily helps care for her younger brother Max, who has cerebral palsy. Every morning, she helps him get ready for school, packs his bag, and supports her mum with his routine. After school, she spends time with him, helps when he’s tired, and comforts him when things feel overwhelming.
It’s not always easy, but I love my brother and I know he needs me.
Our work
Caring can be deeply isolating without the right support. Many carers face challenges including poor health, financial pressure, and loneliness. Simple moments of respite can make all the difference.
We support unpaid carers and young carers through emotional and practical support, respite activities, opportunities to connect with others, and advice and advocacy when it’s needed most.
Last year alone, we supported 39,000 people across our services — helping carers feel less alone and more supported in their caring role.
30 People. £10 Each. One Big Difference.
We’re looking for just 30 people to donate £10 each during Carers Week to help raise £300 for unpaid carers who need support, advice, and someone to turn to.
£10 may feel small, but together it can help fund respite support for 12 carers in our community.
This will help us provide a respite day for 12 carers to give them a much-needed break from their caring responsibilities.
Every donation helps create small but meaningful breaks in what can often be a very demanding and isolating role.
Once you’ve donated, share this page on Facebook and encourage others to join you. Let’s see how many people we can inspire to give £10 for carers this week.
💙 Together, we can help ensure carers feel seen, supported, and never alone.