NEWCIS is giving unpaid carers in Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham the chance to take some time away from their caring role through its project ‘Time for Me’.
Carers have been able to access overnight breaks and micro breaks, such as trips to the cinema, meal outs with family or red letter day experiences. It has also been able to offer carers the opportunity to stay at the organisation’s holiday home in Prestatyn.
The overnight breaks were arranged in discussion with carers, who selected Chester and the Oswestry area for their trips. Both groups had a brilliant time, benefiting from meeting other carers and having time away from their 24/7 caring demands. Everyone gained something from the breaks - some loved the opportunity to simply have some relaxation time, others really enjoyed socializing with other carers.
One carer enjoyed their first break away for many years with their partner. They explain, “As my mother’s condition deteriorates, I often feel torn between my mother and partner and I worry that my relationship may break down due to me being so tired and run down. Having the break made me realise how much I do on a daily basis. We both benefitted and feel better able to cope with situations as they arise now we’re back home.”
Taking time out for yourself when you are in a caring role is priceless
The project has supported young carers as well, providing equipment for camping trips, organising days out during school holidays and offering small grants for young carers, to help with school equipment and personal care needs. Many young carers have had a break away from their caring role for the first time, and the experience has not only supported their well-being but also boosted confidence.
Short breaks aren’t necessarily an overnight stay or weekend away, they come in many shapes and sizes. NEWCIS, for example, offered a range of hobby classes and short courses over the winter months, including baking, home cooking, needle work and crochet, book club and terrarium planting. They have allowed carers to take a few hours for themselves and the opportunity to explore new interests.
NEWCIS has also used the funding to supply carers with vouchers to use in a way that best suits their needs. One person who cares for their partner, and mother, who has undiagnosed dementia, was grateful for the opportunity to simply go out for a meal. Alongside their caring role, they have to manage all the household chores and work. Due to their caring commitments, recently they have had to reduce their hours, which has brought a whole new set of financial pressures. They get very little time for themselves or family fun time, and eating out is now a luxury they can’t afford. Just the opportunity to enjoy a voucher for a meal out together with their partner was overwhelming and made them feel they had been valued as a carer.
Short Breaks Scheme funding has also supported NEWCIS’s award-winning ‘Bridging the Gap’ scheme. This not only gives flexibility about the types of break but also provides for support services to look after the cared for person at home, giving peace of mind.
“We take the time to make sure everyone has everything they need and arrange everything for our carers to make this the break they deserve. We chose suitable venues for hotel breaks, with spa access for maximum relaxation time. We also make sure carers have all the resources they need to care for their loved ones while away, or help them arrange this through one of our schemes, such as the Bridging the Gap.
“Sometimes, the hardest thing is to reassure carers that they need to take the time out for themselves and to realise how much a break will benefit both them and the loved ones they care for. Taking time out for yourself when you are in a caring role is priceless – it means you can return rested and feel a little less overwhelmed with the daily pressures of being a carer. Also, the opportunity to speak to other carers, well-being officers and professionals is a real added value of the Short Breaks Scheme.”