As part of Carers Week 2026, Kirsten Hogg, Director of Devolved Nations at Carers UK, is sharing her reflections on this year's theme, Building Carer Friendly Communities, and encouraging everyone to consider how they can better support unpaid carers.

In her video message, Kirsten discusses the importance of creating communities where carers feel understood, valued and included. Since joining Carers UK, she has heard first-hand from carers about the challenges they face and the isolation that can often accompany caring.

Whether it's feeling that friends don't fully understand their situation, struggling to balance work and caring responsibilities, or not feeling listened to by professionals, many carers can feel alone in their role.

At the same time, Kirsten has also heard inspiring stories about the positive difference that carer-aware individuals, employers and organisations can make. Small acts of understanding, recognition and support can have a significant impact on carers' lives.

This Carers Week, Kirsten is encouraging everyone to learn more about caring and to think about the carers they may know in their workplace, community, family or friendship groups. By becoming more aware of the realities of caring and taking simple steps to offer support, we can all help to create communities where carers feel recognised and valued.

Building Carer Friendly Communities is something that everyone can contribute to, and Kirsten hopes Carers Week will inspire more people to take action and help ensure carers feel less isolated and more supported.

Find out more on the Carers Week website - carersweek.org

Watch Kirsten's full Carers Week message above.

I've heard some incredible stories about what a difference it can really make when people and organisations are carer aware."

- Kirsten Hogg, Director of Devolved Nations at Carers UK