Why London’s Carers Need Mental Health First Aid Skills – And How You Can Learn Them For Free

Caring for a loved one is one of the most meaningful roles a person can take on. Yet behind the quiet strength of London’s 700,000 unpaid, paid carers lies a growing mental health crisis. Recent studies show that 72% of carers report feeling stressed, anxious or depressed, with many saying they’ve reached breaking point.  Reserve Your Free Spot Today →

At CarersMind UK, we believe no carer should have to choose between supporting others and protecting their own wellbeing. That’s why we’re proud to announce our free Carer Wellbeing Conference this January – and a fully-funded pathway to becoming a certified Mental Health First Aider.

Want to support the cause ? you can DONATE  OR  SHOP   to support carers’ mental health. Every action makes a difference

 An Inspiring Start to the CarersMind Journey 17th jan 2026

Our first CarersMind wellbeing event was a powerful reminder of what happens when carers come together. From shared experiences to expert mental health insights, the room was filled with connection, learning, and hope. Carers left feeling seen, supported, and better equipped — and this is only the beginning.  Our project was made possible thanks to #nationallottery players’

 

 

The Silent Struggle of Caring

Caring often means long hours, emotional strain, financial pressure, and social isolation. Many carers tell us they feel “invisible” – supporting others while their own needs go unmet. Traditional support services are stretched, and mental health resources can feel out of reach.

But what if carers themselves could be equipped with the skills to:

  • Recognise early signs of stress and burnout – in themselves and those they care for?

  • Start supportive conversations about mental health with confidence?

  • Guide someone toward professional help when needed?

  • Build personal resilience while continuing to care?

That’s where Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) comes in.


What is Mental Health First Aid – and Why Does It Matter for Carers?

Just as physical first aid helps someone in a medical emergencyMHFA teaches you how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental ill-health. For carers, these skills are particularly powerful because:

✅ You learn to support your own mental wellbeing with practical, sustainable strategies
✅ You gain confidence in having difficult conversations with family, friends, or healthcare professionals
✅ You become part of a supportive network of carers who understand your journey
✅ You receive a recognised certificate that acknowledges your commitment and skill


We’re bringing together experts, advocates, and carers for two afternoons of connection, learning, and practical support.

📅 Dates:

Saturday 17th & 31st January 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 Venue: The Abbey Centre, 34 Great Smith Street, Westminster, London SW1P 3BU

🎤 You’ll Hear From:

Claire Shelton – Accredited MHFA England Instructor
With years of experience delivering mental health training, Claire will share practical MHFA techniques tailored specifically to the realities of caring.

Matthew McKenzie FRSA BEM – Carer Activist & Campaigner
A recognised voice in carer rights and wellbeing, Matthew brings both personal experience and policy insight to the conversation.

📚 What You’ll Gain:

  • Expert insights on carer resilience, stress management, and setting healthy boundaries

  • Networking opportunities with other paid and unpaid carers

  • Information about our fully-funded MHFA training pathway – with places available for eligible carers after the conference

  • Practical takeaways you can use immediately to support your own wellbeing


A Fully-Funded Pathway to Becoming an MHFAider

Thanks to funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, we’re able to offer eligible carers who attend our conference the opportunity to complete a full MHFA England course at no cost.

This isn’t just a workshop – it’s the first step toward becoming a certified Mental Health First Aider, equipped with skills that will benefit you, your loved ones, and your community for years to come.


Who Should Attend?

This conference is for all carers – whether you’re:

  • An unpaid carer looking after a family member or friend

  • A professional carer working in the community or residential care

  • New to caring or have been supporting someone for years

  • Interested in mental health skills for personal or professional development


“But I Can’t Afford to Take Time Off…”

We’ve made sure cost isn’t a barrier:

  • Conference attendance is completely free

  • Travel expenses can be reimbursed for carer attendees

  • Refreshments will be provided

  • The venue is fully accessible


How to Reserve Your Place

Spaces are limited to ensure a supportive, interactive experience.

👉 Click here to reserve your free spot on Eventbrite

Prefer to just show up on the day? Walk-ins are welcome, but booking helps us plan refreshments and materials.


A Message From Our Founder

“At CarersMind UK, we believe that supporting carers isn’t just about providing resources – it’s about building resilience, confidence, and community. This conference is our way of saying: your mental health matters, your skills matter, and you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.”

– Samuel Ndam, Founder, CarersMind UK


This event is funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, thanks to National Lottery players


📍 CarersMind UK | www.carersmind.co.uk | info@carersmind.co.uk


Ready to Invest in Your Wellbeing?

Reserve Your Free Spot Today →

Together, we can build a London where every carer is supported, skilled, and resilient.


🕒 Limited spaces available – book now to avoid disappointment.

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