Find out about weekly online Share and Learn sessions that offer creative activities, fitness, legal briefings and peer support for carers
We run a continuous programme of free online Share and Learn activities aimed at supporting the wellbeing and skills of unpaid carers. Our timetable includes gentle exercise, creative workshops, practical briefings and opportunities to talk with others who understand life in a caring role.
All sessions include automated closed captions provided by Rev to improve accessibility, and we add fresh events every week so you can check back for new offerings. If you are looking for a low-pressure way to try movement practices, creative prompts or legal advice, our sessions are designed to fit around busy caring schedules while keeping participation straightforward.
Although our recent series of Pilates and Hatha yoga classes has concluded, we hope to schedule similar mind-body sessions again in future months. In the meantime, we are still offering beginner-focused movement classes and restorative practices led by experienced instructors; these aim to recharge both body and mind in short, manageable sessions.
Whether you want a gentle introduction to Pilates principles or a mobility-focused session to lift energy, our faculty emphasise safe, accessible options suitable for complete beginners. Booking details and facilitator biographies are shared for each event so you can decide which session best meets your needs.
April programme highlights
This month’s line-up includes several events tailored to carers seeking creative stimulation, physical refreshment and legal information. The charity Arts for Dementia will lead a calming arts session that shares activities used with people affected by dementia and their carers, offering ideas you can replicate at home. There is also a lively, accessible fitness class with Sophie, a certified personal trainer, who combines mobility, strength and flexibility work into a single session to help participants re-energise. In addition, Carers UK is launching a national Power of Attorney awareness initiative; our adviser Priya will explain how to apply for a Power of Attorney, what happens if an application is not in place, how to discuss the topic with family members and where financial support with fees may be available.
May workshops and writing series
May offers a two-part creative writing workshop with writer and teacher Andrew Kauffmann, designed as a gentle, confidential space where carers can explore personal stories and experiment with different forms. The first workshop invites participants to warm up with prompts and private reflection, while the second session focuses on techniques such as crafting dialogue and building scenes. Also returning in May is a full introduction to Pilates for absolute beginners, taught by Emma Merkl, who has years of teaching experience and a focus on restorative movement. These workshops aim to provide not just skills but a calm interval from caring responsibilities, encouraging regular practice and self-expression.
Booking, recordings and accessibility
Most events are bookable via Zoom. After you click the “Book here” link for a session you will receive a confirmation email containing the Zoom join link; please note this message may not arrive immediately if you register outside office hours. You must register for each session individually, and some sessions will be recorded so that the facilitator’s presentation can be shared more widely. When recordings are made public, only the speaker or facilitator segment is published; participants who prefer not to appear can switch off camera and audio during that portion. We strongly recommend checking event details for any additional accessibility information before attending.
Ongoing peer support and regional offers
Alongside Share and Learn, we host weekly online Care for a Cuppa meet-ups where carers can connect, share lived experiences and offer mutual support in an informal setting. Regional variations of the programme include Me Time sessions from Carers Wales, which combine rights information, mindfulness, dance, cooking and crafting to support emotional and physical wellbeing. For carers in Northern Ireland our Share and Learn schedule includes relaxation classes, craft and music activities; to join or learn more about local sessions in Northern Ireland please email [email protected] for registration information and upcoming dates.
How to get the most from these sessions
To benefit fully, plan to arrive a few minutes early to set up your device and check captions; bring water and a small notebook if you wish to record prompts or wellbeing tips. Use the chat function to ask questions, but remember you can also participate privately by turning off camera and microphone. These events are intended to respect confidentiality and create a supportive environment, so feel free to engage at a level that suits you. If you have any questions about content, accessibility or booking, our Helpline advisers are available to help with guidance and signposting to additional resources.
