It was an absolute pleasure to be welcomed to the emotive and powerful support group for carers run by Healthy Minds Matter CIC and to see first-hand the impact our grant was having on participants.

Carers carry a significant emotional and physical burden, often with the responsibility of another person depending entirely on them. As a result, many struggle to find time for themselves. In 2025, Cheshire Carers Trust carried out research that identified a clear need for mental health support among carers and former carers, many of whom experience depression, anxiety, chronic stress, low confidence and low mood. Alongside these challenges, carers may also face financial hardship and social isolation, often sacrificing their own social lives to care for a loved one.

The Chester-based programme began with four weekly workshops covering anxiety, negative thinking, self-care and motivation. These interactive, in-person sessions were led by two trained and experienced psychologists, Andrea and Tracy, who provided participants with practical coping strategies for managing the pressures of daily life, including breathing exercises and strength-based techniques.

Following the workshops, participants progressed to a fortnightly coaching programme. This supportive and safe space allows carers to reflect on what they have learned and achieved so far, while continuing to build confidence, resilience and social connections. The programme also acts as a valuable peer support network, helping carers realise they are not alone in their experiences.

This support equips the carers with the tools and techniques needed to maintain positive mental health, strengthen their confidence and build meaningful peer relationships that will continue long after the programme has ended.

During the visit, the carers shared their experiences from the course so far, with one mentioning they had learnt ways to switch their mind off from their daily grind. Another said they felt like a completely different person from the one who had first joined the group, having learned the importance of setting personal boundaries.

The sense of kinship within the group was palpable and it was clear that strong, lasting friendships had been formed.

The power of the group lay not only in the professional support provided, but also in the connection shared between carers who truly understood each other’s experiences, and we are delighted our £2,990 grant enabled this.