Where hundreds of Derby carers found help in one day

By AtheneNet News Desk | Published 18 August 2026

More than 400 people came specifically to Derby Market Hall for the Derby City Carers Event, bringing unpaid carers face to face with over 70 organisations and support services in one location.

For carers dealing with urgent decisions, the practical benefit was direct access to advice without having to approach each service separately. Derby City Council’s report, published on 18 August, said the event was delivered by the city’s unpaid carers alongside the Derby City Council Neighbourhoods team and Derby City Carers.

More than 400 people attended for carer support

Volunteers recorded over 400 people attending the event itself. Derby Market Hall received more than 1,900 visitors during the wider day, giving the participating organisations an opportunity to raise awareness among people who had not necessarily arrived for the carers event.

Those figures describe two different groups: the first covers recorded event attendees, while the larger total represents overall footfall at the venue. Many organisations reported speaking with dozens of carers. One stallholder engaged with more than 100 carers and professionals while explaining available services and encouraging registrations.

The gathering also allowed voluntary groups and professionals to make new contacts and consider how carers could be directed more effectively between services.

Advice covered welfare, care decisions and mental health

Visitors could obtain practical guidance from Welfare Rights and Derby Carers Service, as well as hear presentations from carers describing their own experiences. The range of stalls meant people could raise several concerns during one visit rather than treating each issue in isolation.

One attendee, whose mother was in hospital, came to learn what would happen next. The carer said Adult Social Care provided reassurance and that having information from numerous stalls in one place was “perfect timing”.

Living Well Derbyshire reported that several visitors discussed the effect their caring responsibilities had on their mental health. They were then able to access further support or be directed towards an appropriate service.

Carers’ lived experience shaped the event

A team of 25 volunteers supported the day, including 20 people who are carers themselves. Their first-hand knowledge helped visitors speak with people familiar with the pressures and uncertainty that can accompany a caring role.

That experience was also present in the event’s presentations, where carers spoke about their own circumstances alongside the formal guidance offered by services. Councillor Alison Martin, Derby’s Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Care, said bringing advice, practical support and other carers together helped people recognise that they were not alone.

Where Derby carers can seek ongoing help

Carers living in the city can find support information through Derby City Council and Derby Carers Service. Those considering the financial rules affecting paid work can also read AtheneNet’s coverage of the Carer’s Allowance review deadline, which closes at 11:59pm on 18 August.

Support covering Derbyshire is available from Derbyshire Carers Association by emailing [email protected] or calling 01332 315777.

Source: Derby City Council