With no carer centres in Rhondda Cynon Taff (RCT) and Merthyr Tydfil, a different approach was required. Working with Carers Trust Wales, £80,000 of funding was disseminated to 11 grassroots organisations across the region.
The project has stimulated some fantastic partnerships and made a real difference to carers’ lives
Small Woods/Coed Lleol
Age Connects Morgannwg agrees, “This project was wonderful to be part of. There was so much positivity in being able to offer people in need of support with a coping strategy or an opportunity to do something for themselves.”
Every project made a huge impact on the lives of the carers they reached, and had some wider-reaching positive effects on the organisations as well as the carers. Here are just a few of the stories….
Small Woods, a thriving community with a shared passion for UK woodlands, received funding to provide short breaks for unpaid carers in South-East Wales.
The Carer’s Programme was made up of 10 nature-based sessions, delivered in Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taf for both unpaid carers and those who they care for. Sessions were designed to provide an immersive experience in local green spaces, provide relief from the daily grind, encourage connection with nature and teach green skills to pass on to friends and family.
One carer says, "It improved my wellbeing, because mentally I know it was that it was my break. It was my three hours I could just completely switch off from being a mom and a carer and responsible adult. And I could just focus on myself. I didn't think: What do I have to do next? What do I need to plan? What needs to be done? I could just focus on myself and what I need to do. I can't remember when the last time was that I felt like that.”
The wellbeing sessions were designed to be a relaxed space where carers could participate as much as they felt comfortable with. As the programme came to an end, it was clear that everyone had thoroughly enjoyed the sessions and connecting with each other.
Another carer comments,
Things like this do really make difference, even if it's only that couple of hours and then it's just the togetherness, the talking about it.
"It was lovely to see the groups connect with each other and form a natural bond”, comments Elise, Project Officer. She continues, “Participants frequently expressed how much they enjoyed this time, and felt calm and ready to take on the remainder of their day.”
Funding from the Short Breaks Scheme has enabled Merthyr young carers to participate in a wide variety of off-site activities, such as a visit to Llangorse Multi Activity Centre. Here 26 young carers aged 8-13 years braved the cold and wet weather to take part in horse riding, caving, climbing, high ropes and bouldering activities.
The day enabled young people to have time for themselves and gave them a well-earned break from caring. It also gave them the chance to mix with other carers and to forge new friendships. It was an opportunity to try new things, overcome fears and be involved in the outdoors, where they could expel frustrations and anger through new social adventures in a safe and supported environment.
For the majority of young carers it has proven to be the first time that they have ever experienced such an activity. Feedback from the group was really positive with many asking ‘can we come here again, it’s been great!’.
We love the rating, honesty and details about the horses, in particular!
"Mikey my horse was really naughty and was biting the lady. I did enjoy the climbing I would give it 0/10 for horse riding and 9.7/10 for the climbing." Young carer aged 10
I liked the rope bridges, I went on them three times, I really enjoyed it thank you. I would give it 9/10.
Young carer aged 11.
“I liked the bouldering it was great, I was really good at it and I would love to come again. 10/10." Young carer aged 10
“Before commencing this project we were unsure of the demand, and how much difference a short break could make to someone with caring responsibilities and supporting someone with cancer”, says Cancer Aid Principal Manager.
“We were very surprised at the impact that even the micro grants had on our carers", they continue. "Needs varied hugely in the project, some carers loved being in a group event meeting new people who understood how they were feeling, others were so grateful for a voucher to go out for a meal.”
One carer says, “I am so grateful for this coffee group, it was a reason to leave the house, now it’s vital to my wellbeing and I have made some fantastic friends who I can talk to about how I am feeling. I feel safe, supported and listened to.”
Cancer Aid continues, “This project has extended the scope of existing services, and introduced brand new services to our patients. We have never been in the position to be able to offer carers funded events such as Christmas Lunch, theatre trips or provide them with vouchers for a meal out.
It was fantastic to see such an incredible response to this service and how much these relatively small acts meant to carers.
The carers thoroughly enjoyed themselves, but they also realised the impact of their caring, that they are not only recognised by their family, but acknowledged for their impact by wider society. The fact that the project is supported by Welsh Government is important to carers where they feel their journeys as carers are understood and supported by our government.”