Haywards Heath Town Council was delighted to welcome 32 unpaid carers to its sold-out annual Carers Event on Thursday 18 June 2026 at the Town Hall, providing a well-deserved day of relaxation, creativity and support in recognition of the invaluable role carers play within the community.
The event brought together carers from Haywards Heath and the surrounding areas for a varied programme of free activities designed to promote wellbeing, provide practical support, and offer an opportunity to connect with others in similar circumstances.
Throughout the morning, attendees enjoyed a range of wellbeing treatments designed to help them relax and recharge. These included reflexology taster sessions, gentle neck and shoulder massages, mini facials, hand massages, and Wellbeing MOTs.
Alongside their treatments, carers also took part in gardening and craft activities. A particular highlight was the hands-on planting session led by Sylvia Harris of the Haywards Heath Horticultural Society. Participants enjoyed a calming and creative gardening experience, with plants generously gifted by Glendale, adding an extra layer of community support and engagement.
One of the most popular activities of the day was the bottle art workshop delivered by Martlet Manor. Participants created colourful and unique decorative pieces in a fun and therapeutic creative session, which proved to be a firm favourite among attendees.
Following a nutritious and healthy lunch, carers took part in two group sessions: a Talking Therapy workshop and a relaxing Sound Bath experience, both offering further opportunities for reflection and wellbeing.
The event also featured a range of information stalls from local organisations, providing advice, guidance and support services for carers. Exhibitors included People Leisure, Grove Garden, Martlet Manor, Age UK, South East Water, and the Alzheimer’s Society, ensuring attendees had access to a wide variety of local resources and support.
The event was also attended by the Deputy Mayor of Haywards Heath, who delivered a short speech recognising the dedication and invaluable contribution of unpaid carers, and thanking them for their ongoing commitment to supporting others within the community.
Local Town Councillors were also in attendance throughout the day, providing them with a valuable opportunity to gain a greater insight into the challenges, experiences and rewards of caring.
Haywards Heath Town Council was also pleased to welcome Alison Bennett MP for Mid Sussex, who met with carers, exhibitors, volunteers and activity providers.
Haywards Heath Town Council would like to extend its sincere thanks to all of the event sponsors whose generosity helped make the day possible. South East Water and Martlet Manor kindly supported the event gift bags, while P&S Gallagher sponsored one of the day’s activities. Their support, alongside that of volunteers, exhibitors and activity providers, helped create a warm, welcoming and memorable experience for local carers.
A spokesperson for Haywards Heath Town Council said: “Our annual Carers Event is an important opportunity to recognise the dedication, compassion and commitment shown by unpaid carers every day. We were delighted to welcome 32 carers to this year’s event and to see them enjoying the wide range of activities, treatments and opportunities to relax and connect with others. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and partners for helping to make the day such a success.”
The Carers Event continues to be one of the Town Council’s most valued annual community events, bringing together local organisations and community partners to celebrate, support and thank those whose caring responsibilities make such a significant difference to the lives of others.
By Kelly Lewis
