Here at Wigan Council, we recognise and value the vital role that carers play in our community. We want to say thank you, celebrate all that you do and help you to feel visible, valued and supported.

We look forward to welcoming you to Robin Park Leisure Centre where you will find a festival of activities for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Please welcome your family and friends to join us at our Wigan Borough Carers Festival supporting our Carers across the Borough to celebrate, connect and feel supported.

Browse around our Carers Market place and chat to support services and organisations offering endless information and advice, explore the Community Garden where you or younger visitors can relax, explore or get creative. Immerse yourselves on one of our many activities taking place throughout the day and maybe try something new. There will be a space in the café area for your loved ones with our staff to chat or take part in some lower level activities whilst you take part in one of our sessions if this works better for you. If there is any support that you or your loved ones may need then we are here to help so please contact us at carers.mailbox@wigan.gov.uk to let us know how we can make this the best experience for you. Please see below for details of activities you may enjoy and select your tickets on the following page.

Please note that you can book on to activities on the day, however they are limited and places will be allocated on a first come first served basis so we advise that you pre-book here.

All Day: Carers Market Place-Refreshments, Organisations and services to provide information and advice (Location: Sports Hall)

All Day: explore the Community Garden at the Warriors Foundation Trust, sit and relax, meet with others or get creative making a pebble for visitors to the garden. (Location: Robin Park Arena)

13:00-14:00: Curling with Warriors Foundation Trust-Learn new skills and take part in a team game of curling. Activity for all levels and ability and suitable for wheelchair users. (Location: Sports Hall)

13.00 - 14.00: Walking Netball- a slower version of the game; it is netball, but at a walking pace. The game has been designed so that anyone can play it regardless of age or fitness level. (Location: Outdoor Tennis Courts)

13:00-14:00: Mindfulness- Often we go through life on automatic pilot. Rarely do we stop to pay attention to what is going on around us. Mindfulness helps us to see clearly what is going on in our lives. This session will be focused on Mindfulness for stress. (Location: Spring Field Lounge-upstairs)

14.00 - 14:45: Strength & Balance-This taster gives you an opportunity to take part in an evidence based exercise session, this is designed to help you improve your balance, strength, coordination and your confidence to get out and about and help you maintain your independence. (Location: Studio)

14:00 - 15:00: Walking Football-Walking Football is a slower paced version of ‘the beautiful game’ which has encouraged thousands of men and women up and down the country to rediscover the joys of playing football again. (Location: Outdoor Tennis Court)

14:00-14:30:Chair Yoga- This beautiful, slow-paced, seated Yoga Practice will introduce you to basic breathing techniques; allow you to ease yourself into reenergising body postures and soothe your soul. The perfect blend of breath work, simple Yoga postures and basic mindfulness. (Location: Springfield Lounge-upstairs)

14:40-15:10: Meditation-Basic Breathing techniques will relax your body, open your mind and relax your soul, as you take some much needed You Time to quieten and gain control of your thought processes in a safe and comfortable environment. (Location: Springfield Lounge-upstairs)

15:00-15:45: Circuits Taster- low to moderate activities from a seated or standing position using light weights, bodyweight and other small portable equipment.  It is a great introduction to exercise classes to help build strength and improve cardiovascular fitness. (Location: Studio)

15:00-16:00: Cardio Tennis- A fun fitness class with music. No tennis skills are required and equipment will be provided. (Location: Outdoor Tennis Courts)

15:15-16:15 Mindfulness- Often we go through life on automatic pilot. Rarely do we stop to pay attention to what is going on around us. Mindfulness helps us to see clearly what is going on in our lives. This session will be focused on Mindfulness for health. (Location: Spring Field Lounge-upstairs)

16:00-17:00: Stadium Tour- Wigan Athletic Community Trust are providing free Stadium Tours for carers and their families in the Wigan Borough. Staff from the Community Trust will provide a behind the scenes Tour of the impressive venue including tunnel area, press facilities plus much more. (Location: Meet outside Robin Park Leisure Centre)

17:00-18:00: Mindfulness Often we go through life on automatic pilot. Rarely do we stop to pay attention to what is going on around us. Mindfulness helps us to see clearly what is going on in our lives. This session will be focused on Mindfulness for stress. (Location: Spring Field Lounge-upstairs)

17:00-18:00: Stadium Tour- Wigan Athletic Community Trust are providing free Stadium Tours for carers and their families in the Wigan Borough. Staff from the Community Trust will provide a behind the scenes Tour of the impressive venue including tunnel area, press facilities plus much more. (Location: Meet outside Robin Park Leisure Centre)

17:00-18:00: Coding for Young Carers-Programme your own interactive stories, games and animations with our Digital Wigan Team. (Location: The Zone)

18:00-19:00: Lego Therapy for Young Carers-Love Lego? So do we! Come and join us for a workshop to show off your amazing creations and have fun with other young carers!! Snacks and drinks provided. (Location: The Zone)

18:30-19:00: Hatton Boxing- An introduction to a mix of boxing technique, pad work and circuit exercises. Suitable for 14 years+. (Location: Studio)