April marks Carers Active April 2026, a national campaign dedicated to supporting unpaid caregivers to move more, feel better, and connect with others. This month is about celebrating the incredible caregivers in our community and encouraging small, positive steps forwards towards better physical and mental wellbeing.
Every short walk, stretches or a few minutes of mindful breathing can make a real, positive difference. Caregivers will often put the wellbeing of the person they care for first; this campaign highlights that it is essential for caregivers to prioritise their own health.
Caregivers Getting Active in Gateshead
Throughout April, Caregivers Connected Gateshead is hosting a range of activities designed to help caregivers of all ages to get active in ways that work for them.
Activities for Adult Caregivers
- Sporting Memories: replay, reminisce and reconnect with sporting history’s greatest moments as you and the person you care for join us for a fun fortnightly session. 14th + 28th April 2026, 1pm – 3:30pm at St Nicholas with Christ Church, Dunston, NE11 9UN.
- Mindfulness Taster Session: take some time to pause and reconnect with calm. We’ve partnered with The Little Company of Calm to provide a free, relaxing taster session on learning mindfulness techniques to support your physical and mental wellbeing. 30th April 2026, 1pm – 2pm at Gateshead Library, NE8 4LN.
Activities for Young Carers
- St James’ Park Tour: enjoy a walk around the Toon’s iconic St James’ Park stadium and enjoy a fun day experiencing the excitement of football from a whole new perspective. 9th April, 10am – 4pm, St James’ Park, NE1 4ST.
- Quayside Treasure Trail: take a stroll around Newcastle and Gateshead quayside as we find treasures along the bridges and riverside. 15th April, 10am – 3pm, starting at Gateshead Interchange.
Unlock discounted membership costs at Better leisure centres
Between 1st April 2026 and 14th May 2026, anyone in receipt of Carer’s Allowance can become a member at their local Better leisure centre at a discounted rate of £30 per month.
Better leisure centres will also offer a range of free taster sessions throughout April, giving us the opportunity to try new activities such as fitness classes and swimming.
Better Leisure Centres in Gateshead
- Birtley Leisure Centre
- Blaydon Leisure Centre
- Dunston Leisure Centre
- Gateshead international Stadium
- Heworth Leisure Centre
Read more about Better leisure centres on their website.
Celebrate Every Step
Carers Active April is all about celebrating progress, however small. Every stretch, walk, or moment of self-care is a step toward a healthier, happier life.
This April, let’s move together, support one another, and show that when carers thrive, the whole community grows stronger.