Championing Social Care is delighted to publish the Care Home Open Week Impact Report 2026, celebrating a year that saw the campaign reach more people and generate more national attention than ever before.
With around 4,000 care homes registered to take part, Care Home Open Week 2026 demonstrated the power of opening care home doors and strengthening connections between residents, families and local communities. This year’s theme was World Cup-inspired and care homes across the UK delivered creative events, activities and partnerships that showcased the very best of social care.
Independent research found that around 1.3 million people took part in a Care Home Open Week event, with 85% of attendees saying the experience was enjoyable, 78% describing it as a great way to bring different generations together, and 76% saying it helped create a stronger sense of community spirit.
The report also highlights a number of firsts for the campaign. These include its first appearances on national television, a new programme of activation events held across the country, and the inaugural Parliamentary Round Table, chaired by Sojan Joseph MP, bringing together sector leaders and policymakers to discuss the future of social care. More than 50 parliamentarians engaged with Care Home Open Week through visits and events during the campaign.
The Great British Care Cycle Relay returned and covered almost 500 kilometres over five days and involved 85 riders visiting care services across the UK before finishing at the official campaign launch in London.
Media coverage also reached new heights. Care Home Open Week generated 181 pieces of coverage with a combined audience reach of 11.5 million people, including appearances on BBC Breakfast, ITV and national radio, helping to shine a spotlight on the positive impact care homes have within their communities.
As planning begins for Care Home Open Week 2027, take a look at the report, celebrate what was achieved together, and discover how the campaign continues to grow as a national movement connecting care homes and communities across the UK.
Read the full Care Home Open Week Impact Report 2026 :
