This year’s Carers Right’s Day was a big success. We had events for Carers in Walsall, in Dorset and in Birmingham. Here is how our event in Birmingham on 22 November went – keep reading to find out what Carers said about the day.

We’re still buzzing from the energy of the 200 plus people who showed up, a mix of Carers and professionals. Let’s take a closer look at the highlights that made this day so memorable.

Partner Showcase
Amongst the lively atmosphere, our event showcased an array of stands featuring our fantastic partners. Each partner offered valuable insights and support, contributing to the success of the day.

One Carer said, “All stalls were well represented with polite and friendly professionals, eager to listen to the questions and give satisfying answers. “

Another said, “It made me feel respected, valued, safe, connected and well taken care of. The forward Carers staff ensured that I, as Carer get empowered by knowledge about various support services available for my role as care provider. “

Watch this clip to see what the day was like.

Here’s a heartfelt shoutout to our incredible organisations who added their expertise to the day:

  • Birmingham Carers Hub
  • Dementia Carers Hub (Age Concern Birmingham, Age UK Birmingham and Dementia Carers Count)
  • Home Instead
  • Occupational Therapy & Birmingham City Council Social Worker
  • YMCA Sutton Coldfield
  • Wildings Solicitors
  • Forward Carers
  • Birmingham City Council and Cost of Living Team
  • Birmingham Hospice
  • Barefoot Birmingham
  • Occupational Therapists and Social Workers
  • Carers UK
  • University Hospitals Birmingham
  • Healthwatch Birmingham
  • University of Birmingham Widening Participation Team
  • Cruse Bereavement Support Birmingham
  • Bridgit Care
  • Gateway Family Services
  • A Natural Undertaking

Engaging Workshop Sessions
Beyond the stands; attendees immersed themselves in a series of engaging workshop sessions that ran in the adjacent events room. These sessions delved into crucial topics for Carers, providing valuable insights and fostering discussions and new connections.

As one participant shared, “I found all the workshops very well organised with a wide range of information to fit all Carers needs.”

Here’s a snapshot of some fantastic sessions:

Indulgence and Entertainment
Alongside the stands and workshop sessions, participants had the chance to indulge in well-deserved free massages provided by Barefoot Birmingham – a perfect retreat in the midst of the day’s activities. Lunch and complimentary refreshments were served throughout the day. The highlight of the day for many was an amazing live music performance by the talented Samantha Oxborough.

“Catering for everyone with a wide variety of savoury, sweet and lovely fruit. Drinks were plentiful and appreciated.”

Thank you
We put on these events to raise awareness of Carers, to provide information, advice and to connect Carers to support and, importantly, to say thank you to Birmingham’s brilliant Carers. It’s wonderful to hear that attendees enjoyed the day, as shared in the feedback below:

“… I felt the event was a pleasure to attend, and felt extremely empowered and supported as a Carer.”

“I felt energized, empowered, well connected, and looked after. Thank you, everyone, who worked hard for making this event an excellent opportunity for Carers to feel proud of their role.”

Another Carer shared,

“These events help and support Carers. It’s difficult to get balance in your life when your caring for someone, today was informative and nice. Will definitely try to make it to future events. All the staff and workshops did a fantastic job. All positive no negatives. “

We thank everyone who made it possible, from the dedicated professionals to the Carers. This event showed us that we are a community; a big family. Keep shining, keep caring, and remember, you’re not alone in this journey!