National Carers Week runs from 7th – 13th June 2021 –
National carers Week is an annual event which highlights the challenges unpaid carers face, and seeks to recognise the contribution carers make to their families and communities. In this article Care first will offer some supportive tips for carers and a link on how to join the live webinar on Friday June 11th 2021.
Tips to consider:
- Combat any rising anxiety levels by setting a strict time limit on how much you read about coronavirus on social media and in the news. Only follow the advice of trusted sources such as the gov.uk and NHS websites, and look out for their daily updates.
- Allocate a time slot in your day for an activity you enjoy – whether it’s to read, write, paint, cook, do some gardening or knit. Encourage those you care for to make time for activities they enjoy doing, too. Carersuk.org run ‘share and learn’ sessions on Zoom. These are free and cover something for everyone, from classical music to yoga, to salsa and First Aid.
- Try to find moments for yourself – exercising mindfulness, even just by listening to music, is a great way to find calmness and peace of mind. With help from online guidance, many people find seated exercises, yoga or dance helpful to charge up those endorphins too.
- Getting enough sleep can be challenging for many carers. Some people find meditation exercises before bed really help. Other tips include having a bath with lavender oil, drinking chamomile tea or reading another chapter of that novel you’ve been meaning to pick up again before going to bed (try to find ways to switch off – especially from online devices).
- Keep in touch with friends, family and others by phone and online apps and portals. It’s reassuring to know at this time that it can be easy to communicate even from far away. Talking and sharing your feelings with someone can be a massive relief and release. If you’re feeling alone and very stressed, Care first’s in the moment support service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our information specialists can also provide you with practical support and information and are available 8am-8pm (GMT) Monday – Friday.
- There are lots of supportive online groups and sources of help – Visit carersuk.org to find their online forum, where you can connect with other carers facing similar challenges, making a plan and support and advise with benefits assessments. The nhs.uk website can also support and advise young carers, advise with respite care and also take you through a carers assessment.
If you feel you may need some support you can contact Care first. Care first is a leading provider of confidential, professional counselling, information and advice services. All employees are eligible to use Care first, our services include; telephone counselling, information services and online support. Call Care first on the Freephone number provided by your organisation and you can speak to a professional in confidence.
You can join our live webinar titled ‘Supportive information for Carers in line with National Carers Week’ on Friday 11th June 2021 at 12pm. Please use the following link to register your attendance:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1057349070627718415
If you are unable to join the webinar live, a recording of the session can be accessed using the same link above after the webinar has taken place.