A host of activities have been planned in Reading and Wokingham to mark Carers Week, which runs from Monday June 9 until Sunday June 15.

The theme this year is Carers can’t afford to be ill and this annual event will highlight the impact caring can have on carers' health and wellbeing .

Chief Executive John Shaw said this national celebration offers carers the chance to have some fun and relaxation, as well as raising awareness of the important role of carers.

He said: “We are delighted that this year’s Carers Week will again focus on encouraging carers to look after their own health.

“A range of activities have been planned and we look forward to welcoming many of you to our events.”
All carers are invited to attend a Strawberry Cream Tea Extravaganza on Tuesday 10 June. The event will be held at The Kennet Room, Civic Centre, Reading from 2pm – 4pm. It will give carers the chance to have their blood pressure taken as well as enjoying health refreshments and listening to relaxing music. Local organisations including Age Concern will be available with information about their ‘health feet’ service and lunch clubs.

The Carers Centre will be opening its doors to all carers on Wednesday 11 June when Laura from the Cardio Wellness team will be helping carers’ ‘who can’t afford to be ill’ get fit and healthy for life at the On offer will be information on healthy eating, the opportunity to get weighed and to learn more about a free one-to-one confidential weight management course. Smokers are invited to come and get a CO2 test and learn more about stop smoking clinics. Free NRT products will be available, which make quitting smoking easier. A therapist will also be giving relaxing hand massages. There’s no need to book – just drop in to the Carers Centre, Cross Street, Reading from 10am to 1pm.

See the events section for all Carers Week events.