Carers Forum | Building The Forum We Need
The Carers Forum brings together organisations, Carers, public sector partners, and community groups across Dumfries and Galloway to share insight, understand system changes, and shape stronger support for Carers.
This first session will set our direction of travel, agree the Forum’s Terms of Reference, and begin exploring what this space should look like as we move into 2026.
Everyone supporting Carers is welcome — including Carers themselves.
1. Agreed the purpose and Terms of Reference
A shared understanding of what the Carers Forum is, how it will operate, and how it will influence the Carers Programme Board.
2. A clear direction of travel for 2026
Collective priorities identified, themed, and ready to shape the Forum’s workplan for the year ahead.
3. A shared picture of the current landscape
Up-to-date understanding of key developments in Carer support, including policy, strategy, reform, system pressures, and the wider health and population context.
4. Early relationships strengthened across sectors
New and existing partners making fresh connections, with better awareness of who’s doing what and where.
5. A sense of co-ownership of the Forum’s identity
Initial creative input into what the Forum should feel like — captured through the logo/identity exercise.
6. Agreed next steps and meeting rhythm
Clarity on how often the Forum will meet, how the online/in-person format will alternate, and what to expect at the next session.
This session is open to anyone involved in supporting Carers in Dumfries and Galloway — across all sectors, roles, and levels of experience.
That includes:
Third sector organisations
Public sector and statutory partners
Health and Social Care teams
Community and voluntary groups
Carer support organisations
Carers with lived experience
Anyone working alongside or advocating for Carers
If you contribute to the Carer landscape in any way — formally or informally — this session is for you. It’s a shared space for connection, insight, collaboration, and shaping the direction of Carer support for the year ahead.