Professional Care Workers’ Week 2026: Thank you for the care you provide every day

Professional Care Workers’ Week takes place from 14–18 September 2026, providing an opportunity to celebrate people working across social care and recognise the skill, dedication and expertise involved in their work.

At Dementia Carers Count, we know that professional care workers can also play an important part in the lives of family members and friends caring for someone with dementia.

So this week, we simply want to say: thank you.

Professional Care Workers’ Week is an annual celebration of people working in care and an opportunity to recognise care work as the skilled and essential profession it is.

Care workers support people in many different circumstances and settings. For people living with dementia, this can mean helping someone maintain their independence, supporting them with everyday activities, providing companionship and reassurance, and responding to their individual needs with dignity and respect.

It is work that requires patience, knowledge, empathy and understanding.

And its impact can extend beyond the person receiving professional care.

Caring for a family member or friend with dementia can bring many different responsibilities.

As someone’s needs change, a carer may find themselves providing increasing levels of practical and emotional support, navigating services, attending appointments and making difficult decisions.

Having compassionate and knowledgeable professionals around them can make a real difference.

A care worker who takes time to listen can help a family feel heard. Someone who understands dementia can provide reassurance when circumstances feel difficult. And knowing that the person you care for is being treated with kindness, dignity and respect can provide invaluable peace of mind.

Professional care workers and family carers have different roles, but both can be an important part of supporting someone living with dementia.

This week is an opportunity to recognise the work that happens every day including the moments that may never be seen by most people.

The conversations. The reassurance. The patience. The practical help. The relationships built over time.

To every professional care worker supporting someone living with dementia: thank you for your dedication, compassion and expertise.

And thank you for the difference you can make to the family members and friends caring alongside you.