UNPAID carers are facing profound challenges, a struggling social care system and NHS, increasing financial pressures because of the cost-of-living crisis and an increasing number of hours caring, says local carer charity Carer Support Wiltshire.
To provide help and advice to unpaid carers, the charity is holding an expo in Trowbridge on 21st November, at the Civic Centre for Carers Rights Day.
The charity will be bringing together experts from across local government and the voluntary sector to share their expertise and guidance with carers.
Through workshops and an information hub, the expo aims to empower carers with the knowledge to help them live their lives well and help them to feel supported in their caring role.
Sessions will explore what support is available to carers including:
• When you’re new to caring
• How to navigate the benefits system
• How to manage your own wellbeing
• Carers legal rights
• How to prepare for an emergency
• How to build a support plan
• Preparing for the end of your caring role
• Getting back into work.
This one-day event will attract unpaid carers from across Wiltshire, local government, the NHS, private and voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations.
Carer Support Wiltshire also run local Carer Cafés. The café in Melksham takes place on the first Thursday of the month at the Kings Arms Hotel at 10.30am to 12pm. The upcoming dates are; 5th October, 2nd November, 7th December, 4th January 2024, 1st February 2024 and 7th March 2024.
“Our cafes are a great way to make new friends and enjoy a cuppa, cake and a chat with others in relaxed, friendly surroundings,” said a spokesperson for the charity. “Come when you can and stay for as long, or as little as you like.”
They are seeking volunteers to help run the café and commit to a minimum of two hours per month, as well as initial and face-to-face training sessions.
“The aim of this role is to create a safe and supportive group environment for unpaid carers at a local venue, providing them with a much-needed break from their caring responsibilities,” said the spokesperson. “Applicants will need good interpersonal and verbal communication skills and have the ability to listen and be empathetic with people who may, at times, be distressed, without feeling a need to ‘fix things’.”
To register your interest in the expo, email admin@carersupportwiltshire.co.uk or call 0800 181 4118.
The webpage has further details of current volunteering vacancies – https://carersupportwiltshire.co.uk/get-involved/volunteer/ and people can email volunteer@carersupportwiltshire.co.uk or call 0800 181 411 to enquire about helping at the café.
