Celebrating Carers Week 2026 by building carer friendly communities
East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership (ELHSCP), is proud to celebrate Carers Week 2026 (8 to 14 June). This annual campaign is an opportunity to recognise the incredible contribution made by unpaid carers across the county.
This year’s theme, "Building Carer Friendly Communities," focuses on how local environments - from our own workplaces, GP practices, to schools and cafes, can make a lasting difference to the lives of those supporting others.
Caring in East Lothian
In East Lothian alone, there are 13,147 unpaid carers. Statistics suggest that three in five of us will take on a caring role at some point in our lives.
Despite these high numbers, many people do not identify as a 'carer'. They see themselves simply as partners, parents, or friends doing what is necessary for a loved one. However, acknowledging this role is the first step toward accessing essential support that makes life more manageable.
What is a Carer Friendly Community?
A carer friendly community is made up of people and organisations that:
- raise awareness of unpaid caring
- identify carers who may not recognise their role and connect them to support
- understand the daily realities and challenges of caring
- take practical action to empower carers to live fulfilling lives alongside their responsibilities
Whether it is a workplace offering flexible arrangements or a community group providing a welcoming space, every action counts toward making East Lothian a more supportive place to live and work.
A message from Fiona Wilson, Chief Officer of ELHSCP
"Carers play a vital role in supporting communities, yet many do not realise that the support they provide qualifies them for help. By building carer friendly communities, we want to ensure that carers in East Lothian are recognised, heard and supported. Even the smallest change in these spaces can significantly improve a carer’s daily life."
How to access carer support
You do not need to call yourself a 'carer' to be eligible for support. If you provide extra help to a friend or family member, there are local services designed to help your role become more sustainable.