Issue 96 September 2016

The Newsletter of Carers’ Resource Harrogate 01423 500555 Skipton 01756Ch 700888 01274 449660 icesRipon 01765 690222 CReating a new future for carers We have scooped almost £500k to strengthen and build on our successful CReate service – helping more carers to find and stay in work. Our Big Lottery Reaching Communities bid to enhance CReate (Carers’ Resource Employment and Training Enterprises) has been given the go-ahead – It will also help carers get back into work through allowing us to run for another four years, expanding developing skills and attending confidence-building into and Harrogate. sessions, as well as offering support to set up Our Director Chris Whiley says: “This is a enterprises or become self-employed. tremendous coup and we can now intensify the initial Chris adds: “Some 20 employers will be brought achievements of CReate and offer a new-look, bigger on board to encourage a greater understanding of service to more carers right across our patch. We know ‘carers in the workplace’ and create ways of working many working carers at some point struggle juggling with carers which give them positive choices. their job with caring responsibilities, and many would “We have been talking to employers already and prefer to stay in work but find it extremely difficult. we will be piloting new carer-friendly policies in “More than 45 per cent of working carers have to September and launch our Carers’ Charter for give up employment because of the demands of Employers in the New Year. looking after someone – we’ll help them avoid that “It’s an extremely exciting time and we’ll be starting and work with them to look at their rights, find the our recruitment drive for new staff in September.” right support for the person they look after, and to If you are a carer or employer who wants to be part of offload and express their feelings.” the CReate service, please contact Alison Straw, Head of Operations at Carers’ Resource, on (01423) 500555. l Read A Day in the Life of a CReate coach, page 10.

CReate’s success since 2013: l 346 carers developed knowledge and skills to find work or training opportunities l Many said support gave them confidence and raised aspirations to pursue new opportunities; motivated them to seek work or training/learning opportunities l 206 carers attended workshops, including goal-setting, aspirations, First Aid, and Makaton for parent carers l A pop-up shop in Bradford centre where carers sold their own crafts/items, and learnt how to build a business l Strong links with Skipton Building Society, HMRC and l Met on 1 February with Priti Patel, the then CReate clients proud of their achievements at the service’s Minister for Employment, in Westminster. third birthday celebration earlier this year.

Email [email protected] Web carersresource.org facebook.com/carersresource @CarersResource ACCOMMODATION Help protect Attendance Allowance Proposed changes to Attendance Allowance could mean less financial VACANCY support for carers and older disabled people in the future. – FLAT/HOUSE SHARE – Attendance Allowance is a benefit for severely disabled people aged 65 Knaresborough or Harrogate and over, to help with extra costs of long-term illness or disability. A disabled young man, who enjoys It is also a vital ‘gateway’ benefit, allowing a person who looks after them trains, sport, PlayStation, music, to claim Carer’s Allowance. The Government is consulting on whether to board games, conversation and good transfer responsibility for Attendance Allowance (AA) from the Department food is looking for another young for Work and Pensions to individual local authorities in England. man with similar interests and The Government says those currently receiving AA and Carer’s support needs to share accessible Allowance wouldn’t be affected by any of these changes. accommodation. If interested, and Carers UK has launched a campaign to stop devolution of the have medium-level support needs, and eligible for Council-funded allowance. Currently, AA is a national entitlement; demand is matched support, contact Judith on (01765) by funding. 650319 for details. Under the new proposals, local authorities could have a fixed budget and local responsibility for funding the demand. PLEASE NOTE: we will no longer be able to publish readers’ adverts due Campaigners fear local authorities could be given freedom to set their to demands on space for information own eligibility criteria, while some may choose not to provide a similar and news. Please contact your local payment to AA, resulting in a ‘postcode lottery’. Carers’ Resource office if you need Carers can email their local MP saying why it is important for carers help finding appropriate support. that it stays as it is. Find your MP at www.writetothem.com and visit www.carersuk.org/protect for details. NEW! Book to see us at your JulieBy Julie Rainer, Carers’ Resource Noted Team Leader – Information Make a Will and Help Others GP surgery Making a will is essential if you We now offer carers individual want to be certain your wishes will be met appointments at some GP after your death. practices in Harrogate. A will can ensure loved ones are provided for; Carers registered with Dr it can help to protect your assets for future Moss and Partners’ practice can generations and reduce stress for family at an make appointments to see already difficult time. Carers’ Resource staff at Although a will can be written by yourself it is Jennyfields Health Centre, advisable to use a solicitor to make sure the Tuesdays, at 2pm and 3pm. document is valid and accurately reflects your Others are on offer at: wishes. Boroughbridge A list of solicitors can be provided by the Law Society (020 7320 – Wednesday mornings 5650) www.lawsociety.org.uk/for-the-public North House, Ripon Some charities offer free will-writing services in the hope you will – Monday mornings leave them some money, although there is no obligation to do this. National Free Wills Month takes place each March and October. Dr Ingram & Partners, Ripon It offers over-55s the opportunity to have simple wills written or – Tuesday afternoons updated for free by using participating solicitors. People are given the Masham Surgery chance to leave a gift to a selection of well-known charities. – 2nd and 4th Mondays of the Next campaign begins 3 October, 2016. Register on the website month, afternoons www.freewillsmonth.org.uk or contact Carers’ Resource for more Leeds Road Practice, Harrogate information. – Thursday afternoons Will Aid is a national scheme which operates each November using local solicitors. Instead of paying a solicitor’s fee you are invited to These appointments offer an make a donation to one of nine charities. The suggested voluntary effective way of supporting carers donation is £95 for a basic will, £150 for a pair of mirror wills. and are valuable in promoting our See www.willaid.co.uk to find a local participating solicitor. work and our relationships with You may consider leaving a bequest to Carers’ Resource to help GPs. more carers gain vital support, or by suggesting us as a beneficiary All appointments MUST be for memorial gifts, in lieu of flowers, as some families have chosen made through our Harrogate in the past. For more information contact Carers’ Resource. office on (01423) 500555.

Page 2 Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale LOTS OF NEWS – and it’s all good! We’ve lots to share with you in this packed edition of Choices. Our biggest news is the Big Carers’ Resource is an independent Lottery Reaching Communities and nationally-recognised Yorkshire charity which gives tailored grant for our CReate service (see information and support to carers, page 1). It’s a massive achievement those in need of care and support, and is testament to the quality and and the professionals who work positive results of the already- with them. Our services support established programme. people to remain independent, and have choice and control to improve And there are more celebrations their lives or situations. for young carers who have Carers’ Resource is a company conquered the Three Peaks limited by guarantee. Challenge to mark the service’s 20th Reg charity number 1049278. anniversary – and to raise funds to EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS help even more young carers gain Contributions (300 words max) are support (page 10). welcomed but may be edited. The views expressed do not I was privileged and proud to necessarily reflect policy of the accompany carers to the House of Carers’ Resource. Reference to any Lords for a special reception (page 4) service does not imply and listen to Marlene speak with recommendation. passion and confidence about her role. The deadline for submissions for next issue is November 1, 2016 Carers also share their stories with us to help highlight the benefits of and can be sent to the editor, the Carer’s Wellbeing Grant (page 5), and we urge you to get your Carolyne Coyle, email: applications in as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. [email protected] We enjoyed a very busy Carers Week, (see some of the photos on page 8), or by post to the Bradford office (address below). and our first Working Together With Carers conference did just that – bringing everyone together to focus on carers. A great experience, (see page 9). CONTACT US Check out our first Julie Noted column on (page 2), by Information Harrogate 11, North Park Road, Team Leader Julie Rainer, which will feature a different topic each Harrogate, HG1 5PD. edition, giving a special focus to a timely issue or trend. If you have any Tel: 01423 500555 ideas about a subject we should cover, do get in touch with Carolyne Fax: 01423 507777 Coyle, Choices Editor. Skipton Griffin House, Broughton Hall Happy reading – and you know where we are if you need us. Business Park, Skipton, BD23 3AN. Chris Whiley, Director, Carers’ Resource Tel: 01756 700888 Bradford 15, Park View Court, St Paul’s Road, Shipley, BD18 3DZ. Toasting carers Tel: 01274 449660 Fax: 01274 449673 Carers have enough on their plate – and we’re Ripon taking part in the national Carers Trust Britain’s Community House, Sharow View, Best Breakfast fundraising campaign to help give Allhallowgate, Ripon HG4 1LE. them a break from the often-demanding role. Tel: 01765 690222 At Carers’ Resource we are asking you to invite Email your friends and family to join you for breakfast and raise money for [email protected] carers on your doorstep. Web www.carersresource.org We want people to have fun, eat breakfast, and raise a (piece of) toast Facebook to carers. Maybe your children or grandchildren attend a breakfast club www.facebook.com/carersresource which could get involved? Could you have a breakfast meeting at work? Twitter Or invite friends and neighbours round for a cuppa and toast to start the @CarersResource day together? As we know, anyone could be a carer and it can happen at any time. Choices is produced by Carers’ Resource and designed and printed They might be a 15-year-old school girl juggling school work and looking by Avenue Printing House, after a parent with depression, or an 80-year-old woman looking after her 42-44 Avenue, husband who has Alzheimer’s. Harrogate, HG2 0AU. Any money you raise will be used for the benefit of Yorkshire carers. Telephone 01423 562924. www.avenueprintinghouse.co.uk l If you’re interested in holding a breakfast bash please contact our Editorial support from A level Fundraising Co-ordinator Anne Wells who is happy to help, telephone student Joe Firth, 17, of . (01423) 500555, email [email protected]

Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale Page 3 Marlene ‘nails it’ at House of Lords Bradford carers Marlene Thomas and Lynn Ford were among special guests at the House of Lords to celebrate a new national guide, Spotlight on a Carer’s Journey. The guide is part of our ongoing “Once I found Carers’ Resource, work with the National and started to meet other carers Development Team for Inclusion at groups like Time for Me and (NDTi) exploring the effects of the knitting group. the Care Act, with emphasis on “We got time to discuss our carers’ access to support to feelings and have a break and this boost wellbeing. made me better and stronger in The project involved carers and myself to be a carer. a Shipley GP being interviewed “I’ve been to sewing groups for a film our staff created, along and pampering sessions and I with carers sharing their stories had my nails done – I hadn’t with NDTi. done my nails for years. These Director Chris Whiley and all helped me to develop my Carolyne Coyle, PR Officer, also confidence and staff helped me went to the reception hosted by to discover what my own needs Baroness Judith Jolly, who was were; what to ask for. instrumental in the development “Just knowing that I had the of the Care Act, and Co-Chair of support of Carers’ Resource I the Lib Dem Parliamentary was able to write those letters; Party Committee on Health fill in those forms and make and Social Care. those phone calls.” Speaking to attendees at the Chris adds: “We’ve really event, Marlene, 57, of , enjoyed being involved with this who looks after her elderly Carers Lynn (left) and Marlene were piece of work, it’s really made us house-bound mum, said: great ambassadors at House of Lords. think and learn about what we do.”

Care Act one-year-on Do you know your rights? – ‘more needs to be done’ Carers Rights Day on Friday, 25 November, raises A new report by Carers Trust, the UK’s national charity awareness about carers’ entitlement to help and for unpaid carers, questions whether the Care Act is support. having a positive impact on improving carers’ lives. At Carers’ Resource we’ll be running events at In some instances carers said they were unaware of each office to highlight the rights of all carers, the Act and its implications on them as a carer. including rights to an assessment of their own l 65 per cent of respondents said they had not had an needs – and asking ‘what do you need to help you assessment since the Act was introduced function well as a carer?’ l 31 per cent had had an assessment The Care Act 2014 also brought in new rights for l four per cent didn’t know if they’d had an families with a child who may need support to assessment or not. prepare for the transition to adult services (usually Carers Trust said more action was needed to at age 18). It also provides rights for young carers improve implementation of the Act, with the who are approaching adulthood. Department of Health working with local government We’ll be promoting events on our website in to identify and promote good practice, especially early November – or check details with your local around the identification of carers. Carers’ Resource office. Chris Whiley, Director of Carers’ Resource, says: “What’s clear is that the language used in laws and reports doesn’t necessarily translate to what carers understand they are LATER OPENING TIMES receiving on the ground. If you ask a carer if they want an Carers are reminded our Bradford office is open ‘assessment’ they can look at you blankly; they may even later on Tuesdays. think we are asking if the person they look after needs an Make an appointment for one-to-one support if assessment, not them as an individual. you struggle to get into the office during the day, “Society has a role to play in making it happen and or drop in for information, before 7.30pm. this is reflected in the report’s recommendations.” Reception will take calls and help with enquiries. l The Carers UK State of Caring 2016 report also found Call Bradford office for details. carers were not getting the support they are entitled to.

Page 4 Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale GRANTING YOUR WISHES Carers in Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven breaks or pamper treatments; are invited to bid NOW for a share of a £215,000 pot requests for fitness or IT/ computers were popular. to boost their health and wellbeing. It is not awarded for: daily The Carer’s Wellbeing Grant, District, Airedale, Wharfedale or expenses, rent, utility bills, or aids formerly known as the Carer’s Craven areas. for the person looked after. Full Small Grant, encourages carers to l Applications will be processed details can be found on the form. apply for up to £200 to give them upon receipt – priority will be Applications can be made online a much-needed break from given to new applicants due to at: http://www.carersresource.org/ looking after a loved one. limited funding carers-wellbeing-grant/ Co-ordinated by Carers’ Resource, l Carers who received this grant Request a copy by phone on: the money is for a personal treat, in the last year are unlikely to be (01274) 965883 or email: such as a short break, a hobby, considered [email protected] – fitness or leisure activity, or an l Application forms may be held with your full name, address, educational course. It is funded by until the end of the process before postcode, and contact number. Bradford Council with support from being considered Closing date for applications is the three local NHS Clinical l One application per ‘cared-for’ 16 December, 2016. Applications Commissioning Groups. or household will be accepted received after this date will not be Applications open on 1 September, l There is limited funding so it considered. 2016, and can be made by a carer, may be necessary to close the Payments will be made between or a professional representing the application process early. October 2016 and April 2017. If you carer, and are not means tested. Last year 1,414 carers received do not hear from us by the end of Those eligible should live, and care the grant, totalling £273,221.78. April 2017, unfortunately, the for someone, within the Bradford More than half were for short request has been unsuccessful. Audrey’s story Ian’s story Audrey Young, of , “The therapy sessions are Bradford, was encouraged very beneficial because for a to apply for the Carer’s short period of time you can Wellbeing Grant by a carer slip off into your own world. caseworker at Carers’ As a carer I need all the help I Resource. can get,“ says Ian Braithwaite, “I didn’t think about getting of , who is using his anything to help me or make Carer’s Wellbeing Grant for my life better. I was more relaxing massage sessions. concerned about making sure The 65-year-old was until recently a full-time carer Aunty was sorted and had for wife, Kathleen, 77, who has Alzheimer’s. She has everything she needed,” now moved into a care home. says Mrs Young, 69, who was “The hardest part of being a carer is the feeling of full-time carer for her Aunty solitude and sometimes loneliness, which isn’t always a Mary Dubil, who died aged 92 bad thing because, when Kath would fall asleep during in June. the day I’d try my best to recharge my batteries,” says A former Meals on Wheels supervisor at Bradford Ian. “We don’t know what is going on in the mind of a Council, Mrs Young used her grant for a Todo multi- dementia sufferer but I’m sure loneliness and fear are crafting machine which combines hot foil, letterpress, there in big lumps, also the uncertainty of what’s die-cutting and embossing – giving her freedom to around the next corner. I never thought when I retired I create beautiful cards, gift boxes and presents. would have been working harder than I’d ever worked “It’s an amazing machine and I get so much out of before – it’s very demanding; physically and mentally.” it. I can go upstairs into my craft room, shut myself Kathleen began experiencing memory loss ten years off, and just disappear,” she says. ago and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s five years later. Mrs Young’s arthritis restricts movement in her “The next time I see a young mother looking frayed fingers but the machine allows her to be creative, around the edges I’ll think again. Cooking, cleaning, without causing too much discomfort, as it does a lot washing, ironing, bathing, being a social secretary etc of the intricate work. certainly isn’t easy. Just like those young mothers, I’d “It’s made such a difference to my life. It’s the magic do everything for my 77-year-old ‘child’,” says Ian. of Carers’ Resource – the peace of mind it brings to a Ian was a trooper with a tank regiment in the army, carer knowing there’s somewhere and someone who based in Catterick then Germany. He worked as a can help,” she says. security guard before retirement.

Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale Page 5 Carers’ Groups and Activities: Airedale, Bradford,

AIREDALE AND SKIPTON Skipton Office, BD23 3AN FRIENDSHIP GROUP, SUPPER CLUB Carers only. Art work produced of HARROGATE Dates: Approximately every 6 weeks own choice, no experience needed. Dates: Last Thursday of the month Time: Early evening All materials/refreshments (29 Sept, 27 Oct, 24 Nov) Where: Various venues across supplied. We do not work in oils Time: 2pm-4pm Skipton and Airedale. but most other media catered for. Where: Carers’ Resource Harrogate Carers, cared-for and former carers – Small, friendly group. Office, HG1 5PD early evening meal out in various Cost: £28 per 4-week block, full Carers and former carers. venues in Airedale and Skipton. cash payment required on first day NEW BEGINNINGS, Contact volunteer Tracey of the block. HARROGATE on 07497 4574687. Contact Anne Brennand Dates: Every Wednesday BINGLEY DROP-IN (01756) 700888 Time: 10am-noon Dates: 1st Wednesday of the [email protected] Where: Elim Church Hall, month (7 Sept, 5 Oct, 2 Nov) Park View, Harrogate, HG1 5LZ UTOPIA LUNCH GROUP, Peer support group for carers who Time: 10.30am-noon BROUGHTON HALL Where: The Coffee Lounge, Queen have lost a loved one, or cared-for Dates: 2nd Tuesday of the month now lives in a home, as a result of Street, Bingley, BD16 2JS (13 Sept, 11 Oct, 8 Nov) For carers. Alzheimer’s or dementia. To share Time: 10am-11.30am experiences and offer friendship. CLAYTON MEN’S GROUP, Where: Utopia, Broughton Hall Costs £3 to cover room hire and CLAYTON, BRADFORD Business Park BD23 3AN refreshments. Dates: Every Friday Carers, cared-for, former carers Contact Lynda Oliver on Time: 1.30pm-3.30pm and vulnerable adults. 07817 820965. Where: Clayton Village Hall, Reva Syke Road, Clayton, Bradford, CEDAR COURT COFFEE PINS AND NEEDLES, BD14 6QN MORNING, HARROGATE HARROGATE Dominoes, cards, pool table and Dates: 3rd Wednesday of the Dates: 1st Tuesday of the month more. £1 for refreshments. month (21 Sept, 19 Oct, 16 Nov) (6 Sept, 4 Oct, 1 Nov) Transport can be arranged. Time: 11am-Noon Time: 10.30am-12.30pm Contact Carol on 07846 344071. Where: Cedar Court Hotel, Where: Carers’ Resource Harrogate Park Parade, Harrogate HG1 5AH Office, HG1 5PD HAPPY MEMORIES, Carers and former carers. Knitting Group for carers and UNDERCLIFFE, BRADFORD former carers. Dates: Every Thursday DALES DINERS LUNCH, Time: 1.30pm-2.45pm DARLEY SUPPAUT, HARROGATE Where: St Andrew’s Church, Otley Dates: 1st Thursday of the month Dates: 1st Wednesday of the Road, Undercliffe, Bradford, BD2 4QP (NB Sept cancelled for decorating, month (7 Sept, 5 Oct, 2 Nov) Relaxed singing group run by back on 6 Oct, 3 Nov) Time: 10.30am-12.30pm Alzheimer’s Society for people with Times: 1pm-3pm Where: Carers’ Resource Harrogate dementia/memory loss and their Where: Christ Church Hall, Main Office, HG1 5PD carers, led by trained leader. Street, Darley, Harrogate, HG3 2QF Support group for parents and Contact Stephanie Crabtree on Carers and those they care for who carers of people with autism. (01274) 586008. have memory problems. Social SUPPER CLUB, HARROGATE BRADFORD EPILEPSY get-together. £4.50 for two courses. Dates: Every 4-6 weeks SUPPORT TEAM (BEST), Booking required. Time: Early evening BRADFORD Contact Carol Lancaster on Where: Various venues in Dates: 4th Monday of the month (01423) 500555. Harrogate area. Carers, former (26 Sept, 24 Oct, 28 Nov) ALLSORTS AT WINKIES, carers, and cared-for. Time: 1pm-3pm HARROGATE (UNDER NEW An opportunity to socialise Where: The Ridge Medical Centre, MANAGEMENT) with other carers. Cousen Road, Bradford, BD7 3JX. Dates: Every Monday including Cost: Variable – we try to take For carers and members, to socialise school holidays, except Bank advantage of early bird/special offers. and enjoy hobbies together. Holidays Contact Sheila Constable on Contact: Stephen Greenwood Time: 3.45pm-5.15pm (01423) 500555 (01274) 675721 email Where: Unit 9, Provincial Works, GET TOGETHER, [email protected] The Avenue, Starbeck, Harrogate, Dates: Thurs 22 Sept, Thurs 27 Oct, ART GROUP, BROUGHTON HALL HG1 4QE Fri 18 Nov Dates: Tuesdays in 4-week blocks: Free for children with special needs Time: 2pm (27 Sept to 18 Oct, aged 0-11 years. Siblings welcome Where: Abbeyfield, 12 Riddings then 1 Nov to 22 Nov) at £2. Refreshments, books, Road, Ilkley LS29 9BF Time: 10am-Noon information and support for parents Carers, cared for and former carers Where: Carers’ Resource and carers. Contact (01423) 886886. get-together.

Page 6 Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale Craven, Harrogate, Ripon and districts

LET’S SING TOGETHER, ILKLEY Pateley Bridge HG3 5JS not high-brow, take turns to pick a Dates: 1st Tuesday of the month Booking required. book for the month and discuss it (6 Sept, 4 Oct, 1 Nov) Carers and former carers. Contact the following month. Time: 2pm-4pm Carol Lancaster on (01423) 500555. Contact Chris Whiley/Carolyne Where: Clarke Foley Centre, MASHAM CARERS’ LUNCH, Coyle (01274) 449660 email: Cunliffe Rd, Ilkley LS29 9DZ MASHAM, RIPON [email protected] Singing group for people with Dates: 3rd Tuesday of the month CARERS’ CAFÉ, SHIPLEY memory problems and their carers. (20 Sept, 18 Oct, 15 Nov) Dates: 2nd Wednesday of the Contact Janet Austin (01943) 430207. Time: 12.30pm month (14 Sept, 12 Oct, 9 Nov) LUNCH GROUP, INGLETON Location: King’s Head, Market Place, Time: 10.30am-Noon Dates: Last Mon/Tues (alternate) of Masham, Ripon, HG4 4EF Where: Interlude Tea Room and Café, the month (Mon 26 Sept, Informal lunch for carers to get 27 Westgate, Shipley BD18 3QX Tues 25 Oct, Mon 28 Nov) together and enjoy a meal from the menu. Costs approx. £10. EPILEPSY SUPPORT GROUP, Time: Noon SHIPLEY Contact: Louise Wilson Where: Three Horse Shoes, Dates: 2nd Wednesday of the 01677 470843 Main St, Ingleton, LA6 3EH month (14 Sept, 12 Oct, 9 Nov) Carers, cared-for and former carers. CARERS’ DROP-IN, RIPON Time: 1.30pm-2.30pm COFFEE MORNING, KEIGHLEY Dates: Every Thursday Where: Carers’ Resource Shipley Dates: 1st Friday of the month Time: 10am-1pm Office, BD18 3DZ Where: Carers’ Resource Ripon (2 Sept, 7 Oct, 4 Nov) KNIT TOGETHER, SHIPLEY Office, Community House, Sharow Time: 10am-11.30am Dates: Every Thursday View, Allhallowgate, Ripon, HG4 1LE Where: Poppy Field Tea Rooms, Time: 2pm-4pm Staffed session for carers wishing Cavendish Court, Keighley BD21 3DY Where: Carers’ Resource Shipley to see a carer caseworker for advice Carers, cared-for and former carers. Office, BD18 3DZ or to make an appointment for a CHATTERBOX, , NEAR All welcome. KEIGHLEY later time. Please report to LUNCH GROUP, SKIPTON Dates: 1st Thursday of the month reception in Community House and (1 Sept, 6 Oct, 3 Nov) they will show you to the office. Dates: 1st Wednesday of the month (7 Sept, 5 Oct, 2 Nov) Time: 10am-11.30am Contact: Harrogate reception Where: Silsden Methodist Church, (01423) 500555. Time: Noon Kirkgate, Silsden, BD20 0PA RIPON TEAS Where: Bay Horse, Snaygill, Carers and cared-for welcome. Dates: 2nd Tuesday of the month Skipton BD20 9HB Contact Grace on 07932 848900 (13 Sept, 11 Oct, 8 Nov) Carers, cared-for and former carers. for details. Time: 2.30pm SUPER STRIKERS, 10 PIN BOWLING, SKIPTON TIME FOR ME, STEETON, Where: Ripon Community House, NEAR KEIGHLEY Sharrow View, Allhallowgate, Date: Last Wednesday of the Dates: 2nd Tuesday of the month Ripon HG4 1LE month (28 Sept, 26 Oct, 30 Nov) (13 Sept, 11 Oct, 8 Nov) Carers support group. Time: 6.30pm Time: 10am-Noon Confirmation of attendance required Where: Matrix Superbowl, Skipton, Where: The Hub, Stone Grove, one week in advance. BD23 2AA Steeton BD20 6TQ Cost: £2 All abilities welcome. For disabled For carers and over 50s. Activities, Contact Carol Lancaster or Jean adults with/without their companions. speakers and company. Eames on (01423) 500555, Cost: £7.50 for 3 games. Cost: £2, including refreshmemts. [email protected], Contact 07795 388807 Contact Carolyne Coyle (01274) [email protected] LUNCH GROUP, THRESHFIELD 449660 [email protected] LUNCH GROUP, SETTLE Dates: 3rd Friday of the month AFTERNOON TEA/COFFEE, Dates: 2nd Monday of the month (16 Sept, 21 Oct, 18 Nov) KNARESBOROUGH (12 Sept, 10 Oct, 14 Nov) Time: Noon Dates: 1st Monday of the month Time: Noon Where: Gamekeepers, (5 Sept, 3 Oct, 7 Nov) Where: The Lion Hotel, Duke St, Long Ashes Park, Threshfield, Times: 2pm-4pm Settle BD24 9DU Skipton BD23 5PN Where: Hewitson Court, Stockwell Carers, cared-for and former carers. Carers, cared-for and former carers. Road, Knaresborough HG5 0QE. BOOK GROUP, SHIPLEY AFTERNOON TEA/COFFEE, Carers and former carers. Dates: 3rd Tuesday of the month WETHERBY BRUNCH GROUP, (20 Sept, 18 Oct, 15 Nov) Dates: 3rd Monday of the month PATELEY BRIDGE Time: 6.30pm-8pm (19 Sept, 17 Oct, 21 Nov) Dates: 1st Friday of the month Where: Carers’ Resource Shipley Time: 2pm-3pm (2 Sept, 7 Oct, 4 Nov) Office, BD18 3DZ Where: Sant’ Angelo Restaurant, Times: 1pm-2pm Open to all – if you love reading High Street, Wetherby LS22 6LT Where: The Willow, Park Road, come and join this friendly group, Carers and former carers.

Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale Page 7 Out and about for carers We were out in force during Carers Week flying the flag for carers. Some 35 events were held across the patch in l Information stands at Sainsbury’s in Keighley, various venues to reflect the June week’s “Building Skipton and (Bradford) – and in ASDA, Carer-Friendly Communities” theme. Shipley. One carer read in the Keighley News that we A total of 200 ‘goodie bags’ were handed out by would be at Sainsbury’s and brought an Attendance staff at events in Bradford and Airedale. Allowance form to be filled in Highlights included: l Drop-ins at Dyneley House Surgery, Skipton, at our l Bradford Primary Care Liaison Mel Evans ran nine Harrogate office, and Farfield Group Practice, Keighley, information stands in GP surgeries/medical centres held a carers’ event with us, Keighley Meditation and brought in 53 new referrals Centre, Manorlands and Dementia Friendly Keighley l A carers’ drop-in and tea party at the Bradford l Information stands at Airedale General Hospital office attracted 24 visitors and the new Lord Mayor of (Keighley), and St Luke’s Bradford, Coun Geoff Reid. One carer said: “It’s just Hospital (Bradford) like a party – we even get a goodie bag!” l Some 20 Harrogate carers enjoyed the Carers Time Off dance and movement afternoon, led by a trained instructor (funded by Harrogate Lions, cakes donated by Betty’s) l And 20 Young Carers in Ripon enjoyed a trip to Lightwater Valley, members of the Harrogate Young Carers group discussed themes connected to Carers Week at their meeting. Thanks to everyone who supported us. Here are some photos from the busy week:

Lord Mayor of Bradford celebrates with carers in Shipley

A big THANK YOU to Ilkley Freemasons’ Lodge for generously donating £1,074 to Carers’ Resource during Carers Week. Eric Wright, President of the Harrogate Lions, is pictured Immediate Past Master of Ben Rhydding Lodge, handing over a donation to Carers’ Time Off’s Christine Boxall, with members of the Lions and volunteers from CTO who helped Peter Coupe, pictured with our Events and run the Harrogate dance event Fundraising Co-ordinator Anne Wells, said they chose us as their Charity of the Year in recognition of carers’ tough roles. He says: “Many in our community provide or receive care and support in many ways and Ilkley Freemasons are delighted to be able to help in this small way.” l Thanks also to Margaret Brown, this year’s Ladies Captain at Harrogate Golf Club, for selecting us as her Charity of the Year. l If your group or organisation would like to make Carers’ Resource your Charity of the Year, please At Skipton Library a Carers Week display for young carers was contact Anne Wells at our Harrogate office, email also promoting self-help health and wellbeing books [email protected]

Page 8 Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale Working together Carers’ honest and moving stories were among the highlights of our special one-day conference in Harrogate. Volunteers, staff, trustees, partners and supporters gathered for the Carers’ Resource event Working Together With Carers at Pavilions of Harrogate. Bradford carer Ayfa Riaz, 40, spoke about support she received to help look after her three children, all of whom have a visual impairment, and about her struggle and success in getting husband Aamir Bashir home from Pakistan. She says: “It’s been a great journey with Carers’ Resource, you’ve helped me with so much, working everything out and helping me with all the different Carer Ayfa shares her story pathways.” Carers’ Resource Information Officer Conrad Taylor Another volunteer says it was ‘well organised, with also shared his carer journey, and former young carer a good mix of activities’. She says: “I came away and performer Christian created a film, from a cruise feeling very positive about the future of Carers’ ship in the Caribbean especially for the conference, Resource, and we all know the need is there.” about his experience (read his story, page 11). A range of workshops led by staff or partners included how to inspire volunteers, importance of branding, and developing resilience to stress. Director Chris Whiley says: “It was a great event and there was a real buzz and a feeling of energy in the room. “It was a successful way to bring everyone together with our support for carers as the main focus. It was good to see people mingling and talking to one another, sharing ideas and enthusiasm. “Now to organise next year’s!” Attendee and Craven volunteer Maureen Wood says: “It was a wonderful opportunity to meet a range of people who share the same desire to help carers.” Delegates talk all things carers

Conference in full swing

Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale Page 9 We did it! Our Young Carers’ Service has marked its 20th anniversary by conquering the Three Peaks. Five young carers, aged 13 to 16, tackled Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough – a distance of 25 miles, and a total climb of 7,000ft. Accompanied by young carer worker James Woodhead-Dixon and staff, they completed the trek within 12 hours – 11 hours and 20 mins – earning membership in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Official Club on 27 July, 2016. carers to benefit from activities, trips and groups James says: “It was an amazing day and an which are vital to help them have a break from their unbelievable amount of determination and resilience caring role and enjoy their youth. from the whole team all the way round.” To support Young Carers’ Service please donate at The group is raising funds to enable more young www.justgiving.com/fundraising/youngcarersharrogate

A Day in the Life of… CReate Worker, by Jenny Sengel NEW!

“My day starts with She leaves feeling positive and explore career options and she a quick cup of promises to update me. becomes keen on the idea of an IT coffee as I check I write notes then catch up on Apprenticeship. We talk through my diary. The great emails. I’m delighted to see that how to apply and the support she thing about my role Hamid, a long-term carer, has his might need from an employer. She as employment first job interview in six years. His leaves with a to-do list and a plan. coach for carers is mother has moved into a home It’s the end of my day and this that I meet such interesting and he’s worried about explaining morning’s cold coffee is still on people. No two days are the same. the gap on his CV, so we arrange my desk. I prepare for tomorrow – My first appointment today is an interview preparation session. a job club and a meeting with a with Catherine, an accountant who Now Colin is waiting for me in carer considering self- usually enjoys her job, but recently reception. He was in trouble as a employment. My final task is to things have been tough. Her youngster and the convictions on write a list of the things I didn’t daughter, Jess, has severe anxiety his record make it difficult for him have time to finish today.” and OCD. On bad days Catherine to find work. He struggles with Please note: Names of clients can’t leave Jess, so takes time off writing so I help him write to an have been changed to protect work. Now her boss has called her employer, explaining honestly what identities. in for a meeting and Catherine is happened and how he’s turned his Do you find it useful reading terrified she’ll lose her job. life around since. I hope it will help. about the work of Carers’ We talk through it and plan I write notes, make phone calls Resource staff? This is a new Catherine’s approach to the and review a couple of CVs before feature and we’d love your meeting. She decides to ask to meeting Hannah. She has feedback. Please email Choices reduce her hours and we draft a Asperger’s Syndrome and has just Editor Carolyne Coyle formal flexible working request. left college without a plan. We [email protected]

Recital raises funds Stroke survivor Charles Spencer is to perform a left-handed piano Rally Round Me recital in aid of Carers’ Resource. Imagine a situation where you can call on a network of friends, family In Spite of Everything – the and volunteers whenever you need an extra bit of help or support with Healing Power of Music, the event just the press of a button. includes a talk by piano tutor Carers’ Resource can now help you set up your very own Rally Round Gillian Tarn at St Mark’s Church, network using e-mail and texts. It is free and easy to use and staff are Leeds Road, Harrogate, on happy to help get your network up and running. Tuesday, 1 November, 2pm to 4pm. Chris Whiley, Director, explains: “If you need a lift to the hospital next Organised by Stroke Tuesday you don’t have to spend time ringing round to see who is Association’s Speakability Group, available you just send out a request on your Rally Round network.” refreshments and homemade If you would like further information about Rally Round, contact Julie cakes included. Suggested Rainer at our Bradford office on (01274) 449660. minimum entrance donation of £5. It’s free to carers and clients.

Page 10 Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale Support sows seeds of success

Two former young carers share their stories as part of the 20th anniversary celebrations of our Young Carers’ service Sophie gets her Christian sings confidence back our praises At 24, Sophie Wilson Christian Lunn, now has been a carer for as 23 and performing on long as she can a cruise ship in the remember. Caribbean, recalls the Her dad has bipolar support he received and as a girl she from Carers’ Resource assumed he was away as a teenager. ‘with work’ when he “The Young Carers’ went for long-term team becomes your treatment in a special family. They fill that unit. gap that’s created “As I grew up I just when a family finds it thought this was hard to keep afloat due normal and that every to sickness or illness. family had a ‘patient’ They didn’t just care at home to look after,” for one piece of the she says. “But as I got family – they were older everything changed. there for us all. “I was told when I was about eight that he was “They acted as someone I could confide in outside really ill. By the time I was about 13 I used to my family and friendship group. physically shake as I was walking home – I never “They spoke to school about my home situation. knew what kind of situation I would be walking into. They helped maintain normality in a situation where “Dad’s behaviour was so changeable; there would a 13-year-old had found himself suddenly caring for be extreme highs or extreme lows. It was an unstable his father who’d been diagnosed with bipolar disease atmosphere and we all felt like we had to tiptoe and schizophrenia. around the house in case he’d flare up at us. “Without them I wouldn’t be where I am today, nor “I’d be scared to bring friends home and scared to have achieved the things I have. They helped me find go out and leave him, even if mum was there.” normality when my world had been turned upside Sophie found support when she was referred to down. Keeping on top of schoolwork was a big hurdle Carers’ Resource in Harrogate while at St Aidan’s as I strived to juggle home and school life. I found it C of E school. very difficult to explain or communicate with my “When I first came to the young carers’ team I was teachers. a different person. I wouldn’t speak to anyone. I was a “Once they learned about these issues from the mess. But I discovered I had a right to be happy –I team, deadlines were extended and school knew the had a right to my own life. Speaking to other young situation. carers made me realise I’m not alone. “I’m a big believer in everything happening for a “I’ve made some amazing friends through young reason. I learned so much from being a young carer. carers. I can’t believe the change in me – now you I now see life for what I have - not what I haven’t. can’t keep me quiet. “From a young age, my passion was to perform “Carers’ Resource has taught me to be confident and the team always encouraged me to pursue my and has given me my self-esteem back. I’m so dreams. Now with a first-class honours degree in grateful.” Musical Theatre from Guildford School of Acting I’m Sophie is now an apprentice support worker at working as a lead vocalist for the Holland America Henshaw’s in Harrogate, has her own flat and visits Line, travelling around the world performing on family regularly. cruise ships. “Being a young carer is a very difficult job. It takes “As a thank you for all they have done, I raise away your childhood. But it doesn’t have to be like that money so the charity can help another young carer – everyone at Carers’ Resource has shown me that.” like me grow in confidence.”

Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale Page 11 Giant bike challenge to give carers a break Three generations of one family, aged 10 to 80, embarked on an epic cycling challenge – to help carers have ‘a bit of a break’. The Ilkley family used pedal power to raise funds for free holidays, including travel and accommodation, for carers of those with a terminal illness. On the team’s Justgiving fundraising page they say: “We are one family, one team, and we have one mission: to ride our bikes 250 miles around the Irish coast from Donegal Town to The Giant's Causeway. “Angela, Emily, Jack, Chris, Maria, Hannah, Gemma, Sam, Ant, Bob, Ian, Joe, Ben, Lucy, Marg, Dan and Matthew are the riders. Mike, Margaret, Carl and Bill are the support crew. “Our own family has had to deal with incurable illness and we understand the need to create lasting which we will be able to offer to families and carers. memories or to just have a much needed break from “Carers' Resource is a charity that is part of a National the stresses of ongoing treatment. Network. They will manage the fund and create the link “Our inspiration is Angela Sturgeon. She was between the families and the accommodation.” diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer nearly five years ago. Money raised will cover travel to the property, a “Since then she has had three cycles of welcome pack, cleaning of the accommodation and any chemotherapy and has been on several trial drugs. other support required to make the stay stress free. Last year she cycled 250 miles from Bath to Liverpool They add: “By supporting our ride you will be with her friends. Together they raised over £30,000 for providing essential funds and making a real difference Target Ovarian Cancer. The aim of 'a bit of break' is to to those who need it.” To support them visit: enable others in a similar situation to create their own www.justgiving.com/fundraising/abitofaride special memories or to simply have some time away. At the time of going to press the family was due to “We have been very kindly gifted time in self- have completed their journey – we’ll update you on catering properties in magical parts of the country, their progress in the next edition of Choices. New knitted THANK YOU to: Balancing act l Individuals and groups who An information event for people designs on raised £950, and more to come, by with balance disorders, such as holding tea parties large and small Tinnitus, will be held to mark Christmas for our Time Out For Tea Balance Awareness Week (12-18 fundraising campaign. This September). included events held at Barclays in Organised by Lianne Taylor, of Skipton, Settle and Grassington. Yorkshire Spinners Harrogate l And everyone who has made support group, it will include donations to Carers’ Resource to various services’ stands, products help ensure our continuing and talks at St Peters Church In response to some concerns support for carers. Centre, Cambridge Street, about nut allergies we have Harrogate, on Tuesday, 13 revised our Christmas decorations Runners can still September, 10am to 3.30pm. to hold Lindt Lindor chocolates. sign up for: Contact Lianne on 07895 771125 Our new festive friends Yorkshire Marathon, Sunday, email [email protected] (pictured) fit the truffles. Please 9 October, York: FOUR places get in touch with Anne Wells at available £45 non–refundable Harrogate office to request a new registration fee, plus On song for carers knitting pattern, or to let her know commitment to raise minimum Harrogate Lions are kindly if you can help with knitting, £200 sponsorship sponsoring a sing-along concert for Carers Time Off and decorating or selling the treats. Leeds 10k, Sunday, 10 July: Care@Carers’ Resource clients, at l AND the theme for Easter chicks FIVE places available, £20 non– St Paul’s Church Hall, Victoria 2017 will be ‘Colours of the refundable registration fee, no Avenue, Harrogate, on Thursday, Rainbow’ – so the popular chick minimum sponsorship 29 September, 2pm. covers can be pretty in pink, For info contact our Contact Christine Boxall on gorgeous in green, or even a Fundraising Coordinator Anne (01423) 500555 or stripy or spotty multi-coloured Wells on (01423) 500555 email [email protected] mixture – whatever gets those [email protected] knitting needles a-clicking! for details.

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