On 11 February 2026, Their Majesties The King and The Queen hosted a reception at Windsor Castle to recognise the extraordinary contribution of paid and unpaid carers across the United Kingdom.
Accompanied by The Duchess of Edinburgh and The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and joined by the Prime Minister and Lady Starmer, the event celebrated the dedication, compassion and resilience of those who provide care — whether professionally or within families and communities.
At the start of the reception in St George’s Hall, Their Majesties met with a small group of individuals representing a range of caring experiences before joining the wider reception, which included representatives from charities, community groups and individuals with direct caring responsibilities.
His Majesty’s Message
In a moving message to guests, The King said:
Whether through professional commitment or through the quiet, unheralded devotion of family and friendship, you represent something profoundly valuable not just within our communities, but for humanity as a whole.
🔗 Read His Majesty’s full message here.
Recognition at a Critical Time
This reception represents an important moment of national recognition for carers — both the 1.59 million people employed in the adult social care sector in England, including care workers, nurses, social workers and support staff, and the 5.8 million (2021 Census) who provide unpaid support to loved ones.
At a time when adult social care continues to face workforce pressures, policy reform and rising demand, such recognition reinforces the essential role carers play in sustaining not only individuals and families, but the wider health and care system.
SESCA extends our sincere thanks to all carers across the South East and beyond for the extraordinary work they do every day.