A Shepton Mallet-based social enterprise has launched a new initiative to bring hope, connection, and a little bit of joy to carers across Mendip – and they're calling on the community to get involved.

Make the Sunshine, a not-for-profit community interest company, has unveiled Brighter Days, a creative connections service designed to recognise and support unpaid carers who often go without thanks, rest, or even recognition.

"Every day, carers give their time, energy, and love to care for others – often without recognition or a moment to recharge themselves," the team at Make the Sunshine said.

"Many carers don't identify as a carer – they are a loved one providing support when it is needed most. But being a carer and putting someone else's needs before your own can be a great responsibility. Being a carer can have a significant impact on mental health and wellbeing."

The statistics back that up. According to the State of Caring 2023 report, 82% of carers said the impact of caring on their physical and mental health would be a challenge over the coming year. Over three quarters of carers – 79% – said they feel stressed or anxious, and 61% reported needing more support to look after their health and wellbeing.

That's where Brighter Days comes in. Supported by Somerset Council and SPARK Somerset through the Accelerating Social Reform programme, the project will deliver seasonal creative packs filled with practical support, thoughtful activities, and small surprises aimed at lifting spirits.

The packs are designed to give carers core information in a fun, accessible and creative way, helping them connect with other local services and organisations, while also providing a sense of purpose and social connection. Activities will link people into their local communities, including creative contributions connected to local festivals and even exchanges with schools.

Above all, the aim is to help carers rediscover a sense of identity – not just outside of their caring role, but within it too.

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Local schools, businesses and organisations are also being invited to help. Director Louise Lappin-Cook said: "We are really keen that the packs connect back into the local community. We are really keen to engage with schools and local organisations who might be able to offer items for packs or a voucher.

"We are hoping that local schools might get involved by writing letters or creating postcard mantras or painted pebbles and we have had a lovely response from local organisations already to discuss ideas with groups such as Shepton Mallet Community Bookshop, Tescos and others so far."

How to get involved

Residents can sign up to receive a Brighter Days pack now, with distribution set to begin at the end of May. There will also be a launch event at Paul Street Community Centre on 1 May from 2pm to 3.30pm.

Anyone who wants to contribute, share ideas or get involved can email [email protected].

This is one project where a small gesture could make a big difference – and Shepton is being invited to shine a little sunshine where it's needed most.