A NEW ‘carers café’ has launched in the town, offering carers and the people they care for a place to escape isolation and meet others in a similar situation.
Hosted once a month at the Arthouse Café in the Market Place, the ‘We Care Café’ was the idea of Ali Wilton, who is a carer for her 19-year old daughter.
Speaking to Melksham News, Ali said, “I felt that there was a need in the community to create a space for carers to meet others in a similar situation, talk to each, and relax. Caring for someone can be so isolating – so it’s important to be able to meet others.
“The carers café is open to all carers and the people they care for – and the families around them. And there will be a special menu available.”
The first meeting of the ‘We Care Café’ was held last week and Melksham News paid a visit to find out why the new ‘carers café’ is an important new addition to the town.
Jan Winfield, who cares for her son said, “It’s a friendly and accepting environment. And it will help keep parents and carers in touch with others – especially now that our children have left college. And it is also great for young people – having left college they might feel isolated from other young people, so this helps bring us all together.”
Gonda Watkins, who helps care for her sister, said, “It’s ideal for anyone who is a carer – it’s somewhere you can come and feel comfortable and not worry about what anyone else is thinking. It’s good to get out of the house and not be stuck at home.”
The next ‘We Care Café’ will be held on Thursday 12th March at the Arthouse Café, from 3.15pm to 7pm. For more information contact Ali on 07764 998061.
