A place where carers feel heard, and not alone

For many people, becoming a carer isn’t a single moment. It happens gradually. 

Helping a bit more, worrying a bit more, quietly reshaping your life around someone else’s needs. Often people don’t realise there’s a word for it at all. 

Shelley, who supports carers through Age UK Berkshire, sees this every day. 

“Some come to us during times of crisis, we take the time to listen to their worries and develop a support plan to help them,” she says. “They often express that a weight has been lifted and that they no longer feel so alone. 

“We are here to listen, offer support and provide helpful resources along the way,”  

Age UK Berkshire and Promise Inclusion run regular carers support groups across Wokingham Borough. 

The groups are informal, local and designed to feel welcoming from the moment someone walks through the door, whether they come for information, a chat or simply a break. 

For Maxine, from Promise Inclusion, the groups are about creating a space where carers are supported and can help each other. 

“Others come to us for information, friendship, and a sense of community,” she says.  

“Through peer support, carers can meet others who understand their experiences, build confidence, and feel more connected and supported in their caring role.” 

The groups bring together carers in very different situations, supporting partners, parents, children or friends, but the experiences often overlap.  

Constant planning, emotional strain and a sense that life has narrowed. 

“Being a carer can often feel isolating, making it challenging to stay connected to everyday life,” Shelley says.  

“Having a place to go where everyone understands your challenges and where you can share both your highs and lows of life can make a real difference and help you feel heard.” 

Over time, carers often start sharing information with one another, building confidence and feeling more connected. The groups are there whenever people need them. 

“It doesn’t matter why you come along or how often you do, just know these groups are here for you and available to you when you need them,” Maxine adds.  

If you’re caring for someone, even if you don’t use that word, support is here. And you don’t need to wait. 

A friendly room, familiar faces and people who understand can make a real difference for carers and the person they care for. 

Wokingham Carers Partnership support groups