Culture, Dorset, Health & Lifestyle | Posted on April 17th, 2026 | return to news

Royal reception for Dorset’s carer community

Lizzie Eden and Steve Duckett were among the guests at a reception held at Windsor Castle and hosted by Their Majesties.

Members of Dorset’s carer community were recognised at a reception held at Windsor Castle, which was hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

Among those invited was Lizzie Eden, Dorset HealthCare’s carers engagement facilitator for GP practices. She was nominated by NHS England to attend the prestigious event, which celebrated the inspirational work and dedication of both paid and unpaid carers from across the country.

In her role at Dorset HealthCare, Eden works closely with GP practices to help them better identify and support carers within their communities. Her work focuses on strengthening engagement with GP colleagues so that carers can be connected with the advice, services and support they need.

Eden’s nomination acknowledged the impact of her work in improving awareness of carers within GP practices and helping to ensure carers receive appropriate recognition and assistance.

She said: “Attending the reception at Windsor Castle was a real honour. It was wonderful to see carers from across the country recognised for the incredible support they provide every day. I was proud to represent Dorset HealthCare and the work taking place locally to better identify and support carers.

“The day will remain a cherished memory for me, particularly as I had qualified as an on-call firefighter for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service. It felt very weird being in full firefighting kit one minute and then in a smart dress and heels to meet the King the next.”

Joining Eden at the event was former carer and chairman of the Dorset Carers Steering Group, Steve Duckett, who is also an expert by experience for Dorset HealthCare. He was nominated by Carers UK.
Information and signposting for carers in Dorset can be found via www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/carers.