Milton Keynes carers invited to free support event

Unpaid carers in Milton Keynes will be able to speak directly with local support services at a free drop-in event during Carers Week.

The Carers Support Event takes place on Wednesday 10 June, from 11am to 1pm, at Simpson Day Centre, Simpson Road, MK6 3AF. Entry is free, and the event is open to MK residents who provide regular care for a friend or family member, as well as friends and family who want to learn more.

Milton Keynes City Council says the event is designed to bring together specialist organisations in one place, making it easier for carers to ask questions, compare support options and meet others in similar situations.

Free drop-in support at Simpson Day Centre

The event is being held during the UK-wide Carers Week, a period focused on people who look after someone because of illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction.

At Simpson Day Centre, carers will be able to meet teams from across Milton Keynes City Council alongside organisations including Age UK, Healthwatch and the NHS. Citizens Advice and Alzheimer’s Society will also be represented through the council’s Carers Support Service, which was launched last year.

The council estimates there could be 21,000 unpaid carers in Milton Keynes, including young carers who help family members who could not otherwise cope without support. For many households, that can mean regular care alongside school, work, family life or other responsibilities.

Readers looking at support elsewhere during the same awareness week may also find this related guide to Carers Week support in Shropshire useful for wider regional context.

Benefits, emergency planning and housing advice

The Carers Support Event will cover practical areas that often affect unpaid carers. According to the council, carers can get help with money and benefits, emergency planning, housing options and other assistance that may vary depending on individual circumstances.

The local Carers Support Service combines face-to-face help, phone support and online guidance for unpaid carers of all ages. The council also provides a minimum direct payment of £240 for unpaid carers, alongside access to further assistance where applicable.

Councillor Donna Fuller, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health, Community and Housing, said the event would give people caring for someone in Milton Keynes a chance to speak directly with local services, meet others in similar situations and find out what help is available.

What attendees need to know before going

The event is a drop-in session, and the source information does not state that booking is required. Light refreshments will be available throughout the event for guests.

There is limited free parking outside Simpson Day Centre on Simpson Road. The council says several other carparks are within a few minutes’ walk.

Further information on local support for unpaid carers is available through Milton Keynes City Council’s carer support information.

Source: Milton Keynes City Council