Trafford is marking Carers Week (8 -14 June 2026) with a borough-wide programme of free activities and support for unpaid carers.
This year’s theme, Building Carer Friendly Communities, focuses on how local areas can better recognise, understand and support carers.
A carer is anyone who provides unpaid care to a family member or friend who has a disability, illness, mental health condition, addiction, or who needs extra help as they grow older.
In Trafford, around 18,800 people (approximately 8.5%) provide unpaid care, including over 5,000 people caring for 50 hours or more each week (Census 2021). However, many carers remain hidden and miss out on support. Trafford Carers Centre assists over 7,300 registered carers, but there are likely thousands more across the borough who have yet to come forward for help.
Caring can significantly impact a person’s health, finances, education, relationships and wellbeing. Carer-friendly communities ensure support is visible and easy to access, so carers are not left to cope alone.
During Carers Week, free activities take place across the borough, including Move More sessions, organised walks, music, art and craft sessions, cooking workshops, book clubs, meditation and a free afternoon tea. All activities can be booked online.
A key highlight is Carers Skills Day at Sale Moor Community Centre on Saturday 13 June. This free event offers training in first aid, medication management and resilience, along with information on further support. Carers can also connect with others and enjoy a free lunch.
Devan Storey, Carer Support and Engagement Manager, Trafford Carers Centre, said:
“Carers Week is a chance to highlight the vital role carers play, show our appreciation, and reach people who may not recognise themselves as carers or who have been managing alone. But our support doesn’t stop there – we are here for carers all year round. From helping them access the right advice and financial support to providing opportunities to take a break and connect with others, we want carers to know they are not alone and that help is always available.”
Over the past year, Trafford Carers Centre has delivered almost 600 counselling sessions, 700 groups and activities and over 200 health checks.
The centre and its partners run regular drop-in sessions, groups and activities across the borough, alongside specialist support such as benefits advice, counselling and advocacy. Telephone befriending is available for carers unable to leave home, and early support is provided in hospital settings, including Trafford General and Moorside.
Free health checks with a specialist nurse allow carers to review their health, including blood pressure, weight and overall wellbeing - recognising that many carers put their own needs last.
All of this support is available to carers after they have had a Carers Assessment.
The impact of Trafford Carers Centre’s support is best shared by the experiences of local residents, who shared their testimonies.
“I wouldn’t have coped without the help of Trafford Carers, who have been excellent, supporting and recommending ways to live with the stress and anxiety.” Joanne, Urmston
“I really don’t know what anyone would do without Trafford Carers Centre… from the initial assessment to the regular check-ins, it has been an amazing source of support. The understanding shown has helped ease stress and made me feel supported.” Kirsty, Altrincham
“It is hard to put it into words, but they have changed my life. I have made new friends by going to chatty café and lots more.” Graham, Sale
Councillor Jane Slater, Executive Member for Health and Independent Lives, said:
“Unpaid carers are the backbone of our communities, giving their time, energy and compassion every day. But caring can come at a personal cost. In Trafford, we are committed to making sure carers feel seen, supported and able to maintain their health, wellbeing and ambitions. This Carers Week, we’re highlighting the importance of community and making it easier for carers to access the support, information and breaks they need.”
Anyone who thinks they may be a carer is encouraged to come forward and access support. Referrals for both adult and young carers can be made via the referral form or by calling 0161 848 2400.