Barking and Dagenham Celebrates Carers Week and Launches Refreshed Carers Charter

Maruf Ahmed

Barking and Dagenham has marked Carers Week with a special celebration recognising the dedication, compassion and resilience of unpaid carers who provide essential support to family members, friends and neighbours.

Carers Week is an annual campaign highlighting the invaluable contribution made by the UK’s estimated 5.8 million unpaid carers. While caring can be rewarding, it can also have a significant impact on health, wellbeing, employment and finances, making support and recognition more important than ever.

To mark the occasion, Barking and Dagenham Council hosted a special event in the Council Chamber on Monday 8 June, bringing together carers, community organisations, health partners and voluntary sector representatives. The event celebrated the vital role carers play within the borough while providing an opportunity to share experiences and strengthen local support networks.

A key focus of the event was the launch of the borough’s refreshed Carers Charter. Developed in partnership with carers, health colleagues and community organisations, the updated Charter reflects the priorities and needs of local carers, ensuring their voices remain at the heart of service development.

The Charter aims to promote greater awareness, understanding and support for carers, helping them access information, services and opportunities that improve their quality of life.

Throughout Carers Week, a range of events and activities are taking place across the borough, offering carers opportunities to connect, learn and access support.

The celebrations serve as a reminder that carers are the backbone of many families and communities, providing invaluable care every day. Their dedication enables loved ones to live with dignity, independence and confidence, and their contribution deserves recognition not only during Carers Week but throughout the year.