Merton Council has announced a series of community events and expanded support services to mark Carers Week, providing vital resources for the estimated 13,000 residents who provide unpaid care for friends, family, or neighbors. Running from June 10 to June 12, 2026, the program offers a mix of social activities and long-term support infrastructure designed to provide respite and connection for local caregivers.
All events listed below are free to attend. Residents are encouraged to visit the official Merton Council website to confirm specific booking requirements for individual sessions.
Community Events Schedule
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Tea | June 10 | Vestry Hall |
| Singing for the Brain | June 11 | St. Lukes Church |
| Lunch and Walk for Male Carers | June 12 | Various |
The ‘Singing for the Brain’ taster session, held on June 11 from 10:30 am to 11:30 am at St. Lukes Church in Wimbledon Park, is specifically tailored to provide a therapeutic, music-based environment for residents living with dementia and their primary carers. This session is part of a wider effort to expand accessible activities across the borough.
Expanded Support Networks
Beyond the week-long schedule, the council is strengthening its permanent support infrastructure, bringing the total number of local support groups to 11. These additions are designed to address specific needs within the caregiving community:
- Mencap Meet Ups: A dedicated group for carers supporting individuals with learning disabilities or autism. These sessions will take place on the second Wednesday of each month.
- Carers First Support Group: A new monthly meeting hosted at the Wimbledon Library on the last Tuesday of the month.
These groups offer a consistent space for carers to share experiences, access peer support, and navigate the complexities of their roles in a community setting.
Financial and Practical Assistance
In addition to social events, the council has increased funding for the Carers Discretionary Payment. This grant is intended to provide financial relief for unpaid carers, covering costs such as short breaks, training courses, or essential equipment.
For those looking to engage with these services, the council advises that a full list of Carers Week activities, including specific timings and registration links, is available on the Merton Council website. Residents seeking information on formal carers’ assessments or ongoing support eligibility should also consult the council’s online portal to ensure they are accessing all available local resources.
Source: Merton Council
Source check Verified Local News
The event details and policy updates were cross-referenced with the official Merton Council announcement for June 2026.
- Verified event dates (June 10-12, 2026)
- Confirmed venue locations in Merton
- Verified the expansion of the Carers Discretionary Payment
- Source
- Merton Council News
- Scope
- Merton, London
- Updated
- 2026-06-08 18:56
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