King Charles and Queen Camilla welcomed Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Lady Victoria Starmer to a special reception at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, honouring the invaluable contributions of carers across the United Kingdom. The event, held on 11 February 2026, served as a poignant tribute to the nation's unpaid and professional care workers, while also marking the first public appearance together for the monarch and the Prime Minister since the controversial release of documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein.
A Royal Tribute to Carers' Dedication
In his address, King Charles praised the selfless dedication of approximately five million unpaid carers and 1.6 million professional social care workers throughout the UK. His Majesty highlighted the immense challenges these individuals face daily, including profound isolation, chronic exhaustion, and significant financial strain. The King emphasised the urgent need for practical support systems to alleviate these burdens and ensure carers receive the recognition and assistance they deserve.
Focus on Young Carers
King Charles specifically addressed the plight of young carers, some as young as five years old, who juggle care responsibilities with their own personal development and education. He passionately urged for the protection of their childhood and academic opportunities, stressing that no child should have to sacrifice their future due to caregiving duties. This call to action underscored the event's broader mission to raise awareness and foster support for all carers, regardless of age or circumstance.
Political and Royal Context
The Windsor Castle reception took place against a backdrop of heightened public scrutiny, as it represented the first joint public engagement for Sir Keir Starmer and King Charles since the release of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. This controversy has sparked widespread debate and media attention, adding a layer of significance to the otherwise celebratory event. Despite this, the focus remained firmly on honouring carers, with both the monarchy and government presenting a united front in their commitment to this cause.
Event Details and Significance
Organised to acknowledge the critical role carers play in society, the reception brought together key figures from the royal family and government in a show of solidarity. Queen Camilla joined King Charles in hosting the event, which featured speeches, presentations, and opportunities for carers to share their experiences. The gathering not only provided a platform to highlight the challenges faced by carers but also reinforced the importance of collaborative efforts between institutions to address these issues effectively.
As the evening concluded, the message was clear: while political and royal figures navigate ongoing controversies, their shared dedication to supporting carers remains a priority. The event at Windsor Castle stands as a testament to the resilience of carers and the collective responsibility to ensure they receive the support and recognition they truly deserve.
