10 Ways to Support a Carer: Small Actions, Big Impact

Carers Week 2025 is a powerful opportunity to recognise, uplift, and celebrate the vital contributions of carers across the UK. Whether they are professional care workers or unpaid carers supporting family and friends, their dedication forms the foundation of compassionate, person-centred care.

At The SKA Group, we see the resilience, empathy, and strength of carers every day. But we also understand the pressures they face—from emotional fatigue to lack of recognition. That’s why it’s essential to not only celebrate carers but to support them in meaningful, lasting ways.

Here are 10 practical and impactful ways you can support a carer this Carers Week and beyond.

1. Acknowledge and Appreciate Their Work

Carers often operate behind the scenes, and their efforts can go unnoticed. A simple thank-you can go a long way. Whether it’s a verbal expression of gratitude, a handwritten note, or a public acknowledgment, recognition helps carers feel seen and valued.

Organisations can take this further by creating structured recognition schemes, such as "Carer of the Month" or peer-nominated awards, to boost morale and build a culture of appreciation.

Celebrate achievements in team meetings, social media, or internal newsletters to let carers know their contributions truly matter.

2. Listen Without Judgement

Sometimes, what a carer needs most is a listening ear. Caring can be emotionally intense, and having a safe space to vent, reflect, or simply be heard can be a lifeline. If someone in your life is a carer, ask how they’re doing—and really listen.

Avoid offering immediate solutions unless asked. Just being present and validating their experience can offer powerful emotional support. Consider asking, “How can I support you today?” rather than assuming what they need.

3. Respect Their Time and Boundaries

Caring is often a full-time responsibility that leaves little room for personal time. Be mindful of this when scheduling meetings, social events, or asking for favours. Respecting a carer’s time means understanding they might have unpredictable days or limited availability.

When possible, offer flexibility. If you're an employer, consider adjusted hours, remote work options, or job-sharing to help balance responsibilities. Avoid last-minute commitments and check before making plans that might affect their schedule.

4. Provide Practical Help

Actions speak volumes. Offer to help with errands, cooking, childcare, or even just household chores. These small gestures can relieve the burden and free up a bit of time for rest or self-care.

If you're a colleague, this could mean helping with tasks at work or covering a shift during emergencies. If you're a friend or neighbour, it might be offering a lift or preparing a home-cooked meal. Even picking up groceries or handling phone calls can ease daily stress.

5. Check In Regularly

It’s easy to assume that carers will reach out if they need help, but many don’t want to be a burden. Make it a habit to check in with carers in your life. A quick message, a phone call, or a friendly visit can help them feel connected and supported.

Regular check-ins show ongoing care and can help you spot early signs of burnout or emotional strain. Try setting calendar reminders to follow up weekly or fortnightly so the effort becomes intentional and consistent.

6. Offer Respite Opportunities

Rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Carers often neglect their own wellbeing because of their caregiving duties. Offering respite, even in small ways, can make a big difference.

If you can provide a few hours of trusted care or help arrange professional respite services, it can allow a carer time to relax, recharge, or attend to personal needs.

Employers can also support this by offering mental health days, paid leave, or partnerships with local respite providers. Communities can set up volunteer networks or drop-in centres to provide reliable breaks.

7. Support Their Mental and Physical Health

Caring can take a toll on both body and mind. Encourage carers to prioritise their own health by attending medical appointments, exercising, or seeking therapy. Simply reminding them that their health matters too can be empowering.

Organisations can promote health by providing access to counselling, wellness initiatives, or fitness programmes tailored for care professionals. Offering mental health training or resources helps carers manage stress and avoid burnout. Even encouraging regular hydration and short breaks throughout the day can improve wellbeing.

8. Educate Yourself About Their Role

Take the time to understand what carers actually do. This includes learning about the physical, emotional, and logistical aspects of caregiving. When you understand their challenges and responsibilities, you become better equipped to offer meaningful support.

For employers, this might involve mandatory training on caregiver needs. For friends and family, it could mean reading articles, joining support groups, or simply asking thoughtful questions. Awareness fosters empathy and better communication.

9. Advocate for Better Support Systems

Caring shouldn’t come at the cost of a carer’s own wellbeing. Use your voice to advocate for policies and funding that support carers—such as paid leave, better pay for professional carers, and access to respite services.

Support local and national campaigns that call for systemic changes or join advocacy groups. Every voice helps. Share petitions, participate in public consultations, or attend awareness events to amplify the message.

10. Celebrate Carers Week Loudly and Proudly

Make Carers Week a time of genuine celebration. Share stories, organise appreciation events, and use social media to amplify carers’ voices. Show the world how much carers matter.

If you're part of an organisation, engage your team with themed events, learning sessions, or wellbeing initiatives. It’s a chance to reinforce that care work is not only valuable—it's vital. Encourage carers to share their experiences and recognise the impact they make every day.

Final Thoughts

Supporting a carer doesn’t require grand gestures. Often, it’s the small, thoughtful actions that have the biggest impact. From offering a listening ear to championing their rights, we all have a part to play.

At The SKA Group, we honour the incredible work carers do every day—not just during Carers Week, but all year round.

Let’s use this week to show our appreciation, deepen our understanding, and commit to real, lasting support for the people who care for others.