As Carers Week 2026 begins, we thank the incredible individuals providing vital care and support across our brain-injury community. Carers are often unsung heroes, meeting their responsibilities with dedication. This week – as well as saying thank you – we want to highlight the active, ongoing support we provide for every carer. There’s also a list of other free resources for carers in Bristol and beyond.
The importance of Carers Week
Carers Week began its journey as a national campaign to ensure the UK’s millions of unpaid carers are never left invisible. Taking place every June, this week is crucial for raising awareness about the £162 billion economic safety net provided by carers. It also spotlights the realities of caregiving, from isolation to personal sacrifices and emotional burnout. Headway Bristol is proud to stand with the local care community this week. We know how exhausting it is to manage brain injury rehabilitation at home. We also know that carers need caring for, too. If you are navigating this journey, you don’t have to do it alone.
The services we provide for carers
Our Carer Support Service is completely free, fully flexible and designed to adapt to your changing needs. You can dip in and out of our support whenever you need a helping hand. We focus on giving you the skills, knowledge, and inner strength required to navigate life after a brain injury. By supporting you, we naturally create a more positive environment for your loved one’s recovery. We provide a safe space where you can take time out for yourself and connect with others who understand your journey.
How we can support you:
- Crisis Advice & Support: Access information instantly or book one-to-one appointments at our centre, in your home or directly on hospital wards.
- Information & Resources: Gain immediate access to guidance, including trusted resources from the national Headway network.
- One-to-One Support: Speak confidentially with our team, either face-to-face or over the telephone.
- Invaluable Respite: Take a much-needed break knowing your loved one is supported by brain injury specialists. Our Wellbeing Centre or Outreach Support services run at a cost, but may be something your local council will fund.
Remember, the Headway UK website also contains information to support carers, such as Four Ways for Carers to Care for Themselves.
Leanne Doman (right), is the Hospital & Community Navigator at Headway Bristol. She helps run a range of Headway’s services, including the Care and Connect group, the Crisis Support Service and the Carers Support Service.
Other resources for carers in Bristol
Here are some other free-to-use resources for carers in Bristol:
- Carers Support Centre (Bristol & South Gloucestershire): Connect with the Carers Support Centre website for expert advice, support groups and to apply for a free Carers Emergency Card.
- CarersLine Helpline: Call 0117 965 2200 to speak with advisors on weekday mornings regarding benefits, funding and local respite options.
- Bristol City Council Carer’s Assessment: Request a free assessment through the Bristol City Council Carer portal to evaluate your personal care needs and unlock tailored local authority funding packages.
Other benefits for carers
- Discounts for Carers Scheme: Unpaid family carers can sign up for free on the Discounts for Carers platform to unlock money-saving deals.
- CarerSmart Discount Club: Run by the national charity Carers Trust, the CarerSmart platform is free to join and offers cashback on supermarket shopping, reduced energy rates and free legal advice.
- National Carers Card UK: For a secure photo ID that easily proves your status, carers can apply via the National Carers Card website. The card unlocks discounts and pairs with an Access Pass to get free companion/carer entry tickets at over 500 UK venues and attractions.
- Turn2us Grant Search: Use the Turn2us online tool to check for emergency charitable grants, financial assistance and local welfare benefits calculators. (Specifically for low-income care households.)
- The CEA Card: If you love film, you can apply for a card via the Cinema Exhibitors’ Association (CEA) which grants a complimentary free ticket for a carer accompanying a disabled cinema-goer.