Carers Magazine

FREE Issue 2 of 3, 2019 Carers Magazine

You are a Carer if you look after a friend or family member who can not manage on their own because they have an illness, poor health, disability, mental health issue or an addiction

Getting to know Gofalwyr Ceredigion Carers – pg. 4 Meet your Community Connectors – pg. 8 Information for Parent Carers – pg. 12 Young Carer news – pg. 14 And lots more….

Produced by Ceredigion Carers Unit Message from the Carers Unit

Welcome to the Summer edition of the Carers Part of connecting Carers is about ensuring you Magazine, the magazine for Carers in Ceredigion. have information in a timely manner. Members of We hope, as always, this issue is packed with the Carers Information Service (see page 19) will useful information to help you in your caring role as receive the Carers Magazine 3 times a year well as updates about services and resources (August, December and April) and the Carers available to Carers across the county. We also Forum Newsletter in the months of October, hope that it helps signpost you towards some of February and June. We hope this will ensure that the local and national organisations that can you always have up to date information about what provide you with additional support where you is happening for Carers nationally, across the need it. county and in your local community.

In this issue we have concentrated on looking for You can also keep an eye out for more news and information about groups, activities and events that information on our website: http:// are happening in your communities, with the aim to www.ceredigion.gov.uk/resident/social-care- connect you as Carers to the support that is local wellbeing/support-for-carers/ . to you. We hope you find the magazine interesting and We have held two major events since the last informative, and as always if there is a topic you magazine, a garden party in Aberystwyth and a would like us to include in the future please contact relax and recharge day, near Cardigan during us with your ideas. Carers Week. Along with our partners we have also We hope to see you soon. supported lots of smaller events for Carers in Heather West Aberystwyth, Borth, Tre’r-ddol, Tregaron, Carers Lead Officer Aberaeron, Aberporth, Cardigan and Lampeter. Ceredigion Carers Unit

SAVE THE DATE

THURSDAY 21 NOVEMBER 2019

Every year the Ceredigion Carers Unit and partners host a large event to bring Carers and a range of organisations together for Carers Rights Day. We are currently planning this year’s event, look out for more information in the Carers Forum Newsletter and Ceredigion County Council website: http://www.ceredigion.gov.uk/resident/social-care- wellbeing/support-for-carers/

Every day 6,000 people become Carers but often it's not something that people have planned for. Carers Rights Day takes place every year to help Carers know their rights, to help Carers find out how to get the help Last year’s event was and support they are entitled to and to raise awareness of Carers’ held at Aberystwyth needs. University’s Old College.

2 Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council Carers Week 2019

Carers week is a national campaign that happens Events like this are only every year to raise awareness of caring, highlight successful when well the challenges Carers face and recognise the attended by Carers and contribution they make to families and we were extremely communities. pleased to see 52 Carers who braved the This year, Carers Week took place between the th th horrendous weather to 10 and 16 June. Ceredigion County Council’s attend the day. We hope Carers Unit organised a special event for Carers they all returned home at on Tuesday 11th June to give them a chance to the end of the day relax and ‘recharge their batteries’. feeling relaxed, having The event was at Rhosygilwen Mansion, a country enjoyed a break from retreat 10 minutes south of Cardigan. The beautiful their caring role. venue and surrounding grounds added to the Ceredigion County Council Carers Champion, relaxing and uplifting atmosphere of the day. Councillor Catherine Hughes said: “The Carers Unit Carers enjoyed the complimentary therapies such is to be commended for arranging another as reflexology, aromatherapy and massage that successful Carers Week. Rhosygilwen Mansion were on hand all day. This was made possible by proved to be an excellent venue where Carers were the therapists who supported the event so well. given a chance to think about their own wellbeing. Along with the complimentary therapies, 14 Thanks to all who attended and made the day a organisations, all focusing on Carers wellbeing, special one for our Carers”. were there to provide information and advice to Arwyn Morris, Ceredigion County Councils Carers. Corporate Lead Officer for Customer contact said:

Carers were given a delicious lunch and had the “Another successful and well attended Carers event chance to take part in many group activities that provides a wealth of information and support to running throughout the day such as Tai Chi, talks our Carers. It was nice to see so many Carers and activities around wellbeing and mental health, participating in the activities and able to access a drumming, African singing and arts and craft diverse network of support organisations in a activities. It was a great to see so many Carers wonderful venue. Thanks to all the different meeting and talking with other Carers. organisations for their continuing support, the Carers Unit for organising another successful event Carers said that and to the Carers that braved the rain.” they had been made to feel One of the many positives of the event was that very welcome by organisations and individuals from the statutory and “very friendly third sector, social enterprises, businesses, self- and helpful employed people and volunteers alike all worked people” and that closely together to make the day a success for “the atmosphere Carers. was relaxing” Ceredigion Carers Unit would like to thank all the and the stands organisations and businesses that supported the were “very day, including the therapists and those informative”. A professionals who kindly volunteered their time and bus was laid on skills. The Carers Unit would not have been able to from Cardigan to offer as many activities to the Carers attending and from the without their support. venue to help those who had difficulty getting to the event.

Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council 3

Getting to know Meet some of the dedicated workers who support Adult Carers in Ceredigion, Gofalwyr Ceredigion Carers provide a bespoke service whether you need a little information , one to one support or to be connected with others. The service is free and open to all Carers who are age 18 and over.

Meet outreach worker This makes the role really varied and interesting Sue Lee: and I feel very lucky to be able offer a service which is really able to help people. What is your job title and What is the most challenging part of your job or role? day? My job title is Outreach The most challenging element is when there are worker for Ceredigion, this barriers to support that are beyond my control. involves supporting Carers Sometimes bureaucratic wheels turn very slowly for with what is most important example when waiting for benefits to come through to them in a way that works and this may prevent carers from accessing support for them. Some people as quickly as they could if they didn’t need to apply want a ‘sounding board’ over the phone, others for certain types of funding. prefer to meet up to access support, advice and guidance. Each person is unique and I try to work What do you enjoy most about your job? in a way that suits each individual. Every person I enjoy meeting people and supporting, enabling who is referred into Gofalwyr Ceredigion Carers will and empowering Carers to find solutions to be able be treated as an individually and my job is to listen to cope with whatever the future brings, and make to understand that is important to each person. connections with others. Myself and my colleague Mandy Dean provide I have a degree in Fine Art and really enjoy running information, advice and emotional support across Arts and Crafts activities and meditation. I find that the county. We also support Carers groups across this is very helpful for individuals to help them to Ceredigion the details of which are in the magazine. ‘switch’ off from the pressures of their situation. This As well as Carers groups, we collaborate with helps to give space so that they are able to carry Carers on ideas that they have to connect carers on. and enjoy wellbeing activities. We run Arts and Enabling people to value and take care of Crafts activities for example, and Carers have said themselves, make connections with others and they would like trips out and bingo. We generally have fun is a very important part of the role. try to help people connect with each other, gain mutual support and have fun. What happens at the Carers group? I am currently undertaking Forest school leader Every group is different and so what happens training and will offer some outdoor sessions or depends upon the members. If you join a group or walks in woodlands and parks. start a new one, you can help shape it into the kind I am also a Welsh speaker and can provide one to of group you want. Some groups love to relax one support in Welsh for Carers. together over a cup of coffee, get the occasional guest speaker in, others like to do out-door Describe a typical day at work activities and others like arts and craft activities. A typical day at work starts with checking through email and making sure I am up to date on anything For July’s Aberaeron group I took some flowers that needs doing. I would then go through our from my garden, a teapot, some posh chocolatey database and identify Carers who need to be biscuits, charcoal and paper. contacted, perhaps a new referral. Some may need We ate the biscuits and tried drawing the flowers phone support, home visit, advice and guidance or using charcoal. Most of the group had a go and said a referral to a different service. that it was something ‘different’ and that they had I would also be suggesting community groups and enjoyed it. We then had a little walk by the river in additional support that they may be able to access the sun and looked at the ducks swimming around. to help them to feel more connected. Afterwards, some Carers went for lunch together at I enjoy the fact that everyone is different. a local café which rounded off a very successful morning.

4 Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council Monthly Support Groups Where When Borth Borth Family centre, Clarach 10am – 12pm Road Borth SY24 5NL The first Friday of the month

Tregaron Tregaron Memorial Hall, 2pm - 4pm Tregaron, SY25 6JL The last Thursday of the month Aberaeron Aberaeron Memorial Hall, 10am - 12pm South Road, Aberaeron The first Wednesday of the month SA46 ODP Cardigan Maes Mwldan, Bath House 1:30pm - 3:30pm Road, Cardigan, SA43 1JZ The last Tuesday of the month

The Cardigan group decided that they wanted to ‘get out and about’ at the session on the last Tuesday in June where we met at Maes Mwldan, Cardigan. Our first trip was arranged for 30 July where we met at Cilgerran Wildlife Centre. The group wanted to be outside and to spend time in nature, looking at the wildlife and also visit the lovely café for coffee and cake.

If you could offer one piece of advice to Carers, what would it be? To not to be afraid of asking for help and connecting with others in a similar situation. It helps so much to know that there are others out there who have been in similar situations. It can be a great source of support, comfort and guidance. I also feel that taking some time out for ourselves - even if it is only 5 minutes. I ran a meditation session at the Carers event at Cilgerran which was focused on breathing and counting and I will outline below something that you can try on your own.

Sue’s Simple 5 minute meditation to try at home

This meditation technique uses the breath as the as possible. Sometimes when doing this point of focus. Basically, meditation is the meditation we can start to exaggerate the breaths conscious decision to quieten the mind by and our breathing becomes fast and deep. focusing on one thing to the exclusion of all else. Keep a gentle natural rhythm as you count each So, in this case we gently concentrate on our inhalation and exhalation. You can focus the breathing to slow down our busy minds and allow counting on whatever aspect of the breath you us to access that peaceful space inside of us all. like, such as the expansion and contraction of the chest or the sensation of the air going in and out Get yourself ready by finding a quiet and of the nose. comfortable spot .Sit in a comfortable chair with your back straight and your feet flat on the floor. You can choose to just count to ten, for example, and then Counting Each Breath start from one again, or just This is the easiest form of breathing meditation, keep counting upwards. If you and involves just counting each breath. Count lose count, start over again at "one" gently in your head as you breathe in, number one. count "two" as you breathe out, count "three" as you inhale again, and so on. Try to keep your breathing even and as natural

Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council 5

Getting to know

Meet Care Coordinator them to extra support. Sarah Bailey:  Managing the everyday office tasks which involve keeping up to date with any new What is your job title and referrals coming in, filing paperwork and role? keeping up to date with emails and telephone I am a Care Coordinator for calls the new Carers Service in Ceredigion. I am responsible What is the most challenging part of your job? to provide a reliable respite Supporting families when a Carer is at crisis point care service to the Carers in as this can be a very difficult time for them Ceredigion. especially them having to accept “strangers” coming in to their home to helped them to Describe a typical day at work manage. It can also be so rewarding when the I am lucky to work with a remarkable professional crisis intervention has help them so much to and qualified team of Carer Support Workers who relieve the pressure of caring for a loved one and do a great job out in the community providing allowed them to carry on caring with sometimes Carers with practical and emotional support so that just a little bit of help and support at the right time. they can have a well-deserved rest. What do you enjoy most about your job? The great thing about my role is that no two days The satisfaction of knowing that even small are the same which keeps it interesting. interventions and changes to a carer make a huge

My daily tasks will range from difference. I love being out meeting Carers and the people they support and listening to them talking  Completing rosters, arranging staff training about their lives, past and present, and and regular supervisions. understanding what’s important to them.  Working with our knowledgeable Outreach Workers to identify what else is available in In most cases we find a Support Worker that suits Ceredigion for individual Carers. the Carer and the person that they care for.  Visiting Carers and the people they support If you could offer one piece of advice to Carers, at their homes, at local clubs, groups they what would it be? attend or at local events. Carers are incredible people who devote so much  Working jointly with Third sector and local to others they often neglect their own needs. My authority partners to ensure we are providing piece of advice is “create time for something that is a high level of support to Carers in just for you like meeting friends or family for a Ceredigion and to be a voice for Carers. I coffee once a week or attending a local group or like to keep myself informed of services that hobby regularly” are available for Carers so I can signpost

Ceredigion Dementia Day Centres - Free places available Sarah also organises the Ceredigion Dementia Day Centres, on behalf of Carers Trust Network Partners Crossroads Sir Gar. Day Where Time Monday Lampeter 10am to 3pm Tuesday Cardigan 10am to 3pm For more information contact Sarah Bailey on 07985 672131

6 Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council

Sarah asked her team of Support Workers I am a Carer, how can I get involved what they enjoyed about their job, this is with your work? what some of them said... “I enjoy taking clients out that promotes Some Carers love to be involved in the ‘Carers independence. Going to my client’s homes to see Movement’ in a variety of ways. Gofalwyr them ready and waiting for me at the front door, Ceredigion Carers are very keen on developing knowing they are going for a drive out for a coffee independent peer support networks for Carers and or lunch. And knowing that they are happy after a day out and hearing them say “I’ll see you next would be interested in hearing from people who week” they are looking forward to another day out would like to co-facilitate or run a group in different already. A Rewarding Job!” areas across Ceredigion. We also recruit Lynn Phillips volunteers and depending on what someone would like to do we can tailor a role for you to fit in with “The best part of my job is enabling my clients to stay as independent as they can and to enable the your areas of interest and expertise. We recognise family Carers to have a few hours to themselves that carers have a wealth of understanding and with the peace of mind that knowing loved are familiarity with issues that both themselves and being looked after. The change I have seen in others face. Being able to offer opportunities to some of my clients like confidence growing has been amazing.” those who wish to share this is something that we Samantha Roberts would be very happy to support. Sharing skills and experience with others is very empowering for both “I Love my Job working as a Carer Support Worker the giver and receiver and we recognise that it can as I get to meet fantastic people and every day is have positive benefits on many different levels very different. I never fully understood how rewarding a job like this would be until I have experienced it myself, seeing how happy service You can get in touch with users and Carers are and how much they Gofalwyr Ceredigion Carers by calling appreciate what we do for them is truly remarkable. It proves that even just a short visit for 03330 143377, a chat, helping them do housework or get email [email protected] or shopping really goes a long way especially for those that live alone, they really appreciate your find us on Facebook: Gofalwyr Ceredigion presence and are eternally grateful. Knowing that I Carers bring a smile and comfort to Carers and those they care for makes me happy and love my job even more.” Bernice Walker

Welsh Ambulance Service NHS Trust Carers Survey Over the course of the last year the Patient Experience & Community Involvement Team within the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust have been engaging with and collating feedback from Carers (especially older Carers) that has demonstrated the importance for us to better understand their needs.

Carers have told us that they are reluctant to seek help for themselves due to Carer responsibilities and their expectations when it is the person they care for needing help. A Carers survey is being carried out to capture more in-depth information to help develop our approach to improving experiences and out- comes for Carers. The survey can be completed online at: www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/WAST-CARERS/

For a paper copy, phone 01792 311773 or download from NHS Direct Wales website: www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/encyclopaedia/c/ article/carers(lookingaftersomeone)

Closing date for survey is March 2020.

Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council 7 Meet your Community Connectors The team explain how they can help support you and the people you care for.

If you’re feeling isolated, lonely, struggling to live independently or feeling socially excluded, our Porth y Gymuned / Community Gateway service is here to help you.

Sometimes a helping and encouraging hand to get back out there and enjoy activities and interests can make all the difference.

Who is the service for? L - R : Diane Williams, Carys Owens, Enfys Davies and The service is for anyone of any age living in Sam Henly Ceredigion regardless of income or personal circumstances. All sorts of things and events can impact on your

How can the Community Connectors help me? wellbeing such as past experiences; current The Community Connectors can spend time with difficulties, attitudes and outlook. These can all you, to help make sense of all the services and have an impact on wellbeing as well as physical activities available in and around your local and mental health. community and importantly, talk to you about what How can I access the service? matters to you and how you may become better The Community Connectors can be contacted connected with your community and improve your through a dedicated helpline. wellbeing. You can also speak to a Community Connector on Finding Information, Advice and Assistance for what a one to one basis by making an appointment to matters to you, building community connections, meet in a community setting, such as a café or even helping a community scheme, such as community hall in your local area. volunteering, can all help contribute to your overall wellbeing, sense of belonging and purpose. Contact them at Porth y Gymuned / Community Gateway: They can put you in touch with social groups, Phone: 01545 574200 organisations and help you find the services that Email: [email protected] matter to you and even go along with you, if you’re By Post: Ceredigion County Council, Canolfan Rheidol, Rhodfa Padarn, Llanbadarn Fawr, finding the first steps daunting. Aberystwyth, SY23 3JQ

What is wellbeing? When we talk of wellbeing, we often think of Ceredigion Community Connector Area welfare, health, happiness, comfort, security, safety, Manager : Cyra Shimell Sam Henly prosperity, interests and overall happiness with life. Good wellbeing can be a feeling of contentment, enjoyment, self-confidence and connections with your community and the people in it. Diane Williams

Why is well-being important? Good well-being is important to your overall health. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you never Carys Owens Enfys James experience feelings or situations that you find difficult, but having good wellbeing does mean that you have the resilience to help you manage and cope when times are tougher than usual.

8 Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council The Herbert Protocol A new missing person's protocol for people living A recent photograph of the person should also be with Dementia has been introduced across the kept with the form. It is not intended to replace Dyfed-Powys Police area. existing safeguarding and security measures.

The Herbert Protocol is a national scheme Who completes the form? introduced by the police in partnership with other  A Carer, family member or friend agencies which encourages Carers to compile  The person at risk useful information which could be used in the event  In a care setting, the care provider of a vulnerable person going missing. The form should be completed and regularly

The Protocol asks Carers, family members and updated, so that all the information is as relevant friends to complete, in advance, a form recording as possible. all vital details, such as medication required, mobile When should the form be sent to the police? numbers, places previously located, a photograph The police only need the form at the point the etc. The form should be kept in a safe place where person is reported missing. There is no need for it can easily be located and shared quickly with the the police to have the form before then and the relevant agencies should their loved one be form should be returned once the person is found. reported as missing. Where should the form be stored? The ‘Herbert Protocol’ initiative is named after  It should be stored securely in the care setting George Herbert, a war veteran of the Normandy but where it can be found quickly. landings, who lived with dementia. George Herbert died whilst 'missing', trying to find his childhood  If in a home setting the family should all be home. able to have access in case the primary Carer is away.

What is the Herbert Protocol? Forms can be found on the Dyfed Powys Website: It is a simple risk reduction tool to be used in the https://www.dyfed-powys.police.uk/en/advice- event of a person living with Dementia going support/caring-for-someone-with-dementia-the- missing. It consists of a form that contains vital herbert-protocol/ information about a person at risk that can be passed to the police at the point the person is reported missing. Pegasus Scheme

If you find it hard to speak to the Police on the  When you have registered you will receive a telephone or in person, when asked lots of keyring through the post from the Police questions, you can join the Pegasus scheme which  If you need to contact the Police ring 101 will help you communicate with us.  Say the word “Pegasus” and then your

 You can register for free by filling in an password, the Police will then know who you are application form and can help you  An application form can be found on the Dyfed-  Tell the Police where you are (at home or Powys Police website at: www.dyfed- somewhere else) powys.police.uk/en/advice/the-pegasus-scheme/  Remember, if you or someone else is in danger or you can contact your local Officer and ask for “right now” remember to dial 999 and say an application form “Pegasus” and your password

 Completed application forms can be emailed to You can also show your keyring to an Officer/ [email protected] or PCSO if you need help when you see them. posted to this address: Dyfed-Powys Police Force Communication Centre Headquarters PO Box 99 Carmarthen SA31 2PF Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council 9 Health Information Hub Pharmacies and doctor surgeries across Ceredigion are using QR codes on ‘Health Information Hub’ posters to share the most up to date health advice and information with patients.

The hubs allow patients with smart phones to download information leaflets directly to their devices using QR technology. Information such as the Common Ailments Service and self-help leaflets for chronic diseases can be found at the touch of a button. The advantages of this technology include:  a reduction in paper leaflets  up to date information  multiple language choices

 privacy for patients who are looking for information about personal issues

Patients who don’t have access to a smart phone are able to collect the information in paper format.

Look out for the Health Information Hub posters in your local pharmacy and doctor’s surgery.

How to scan a QR code with your mobile phone  Open your device’s camera or download a QR scanner from your app store for free  Point the QR scanner at your chosen QR code  Your device should read the code and take you to the information you have asked for You can watch a useful YouTube video that shows you how to scan QR codes: https://youtu.be/eumpLWIA4lk

Online video library for Carers Taking Care is an online video library for Carers. It formal financial and practical support will help you understand whether you are a Carer  Your feelings – Exploring the and if you are, it will help you along your caring emotional impact of caring journey. You can watch other Carers and  Time for me – The importance of keeping your professionals talk about caring, sharing their life in balance and ways to keep a sense of who thoughts and experiences. you are.

From practical support and how to get it, to The Taking Care website is run by Marie Curie, understanding emotions, and how to keep your life who provide care and support to people with in balance. terminal illness and their families, however the

 Being a Carer – Carers and professionals videos available provide support and information sharing their experiences of how caring impacts that is useful for all Carers and circumstances.

a Carer’s life To view the video library visit:  Looking after yourself – The importance of www.takingcare.org.uk looking after yourself and how to do it  You can do it – Empowering Carers to make the most of support  Help and support – Information about

10 Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council Congratulations The Older Adult Community Mental health Team in Ceredigion has become the latest setting to be recognised for its commitment to Carers and their families.

The team has achieved the Investors in Carers Silver Level award - a regional partnership quality standards scheme which helps to identify and support Carers. This level builds on the work that the surgery has done at their bronze level. They were recently presented with their certificate and are the first Mental L-R: Pennie Muir IiC lead, Steve Plumb Quality Assurance Nurse, Health team across the Hywel Dda region to Sally Corlett, CMHT Manager, Vicky Hicks Carer Lead, Neil gain their Silver level. Mason Service Manager, Kim Parry Carer Lead, Heather West and Sara Humphreys Ceredigion Carers Unit. Vicky and Kim said “We are very proud to have achieved the silver award of the Investors in them by passing on this information. Carers scheme. All the hard work was worth it as it Gentle Reminder has improved our whole team’s awareness of the If you are already registered as a Carer at your GP issues Carers face. This award reaffirms our surgery and there is a change in your ongoing commitment to supporting Carers” circumstances it would be helpful to let your surgery know so that they can keep their records Have you registered as a Carer at your GP up to date. surgery? Thank you The Investors in Carers scheme works with GP surgeries and other places to help more Carers For more details about the scheme please contact see themselves as Carers and be able to find out Pennie Muir, IiC Lead, about the information and support available from a Hywel Dda University Health Board wide range of organisations in Ceredigion. Ask at [email protected] the reception desk in your GP Surgery for information about registering as a Carer and Tel: 07770 735787 finding out more about the help and support that might be available to you.

Perhaps you know of a relative, friend or neighbour in this sort of situation, you might be able to help Ceredigion Disability Forum

Are you a disabled person residing in Ceredigion, Support Worker, Carer or representative working with disabled people in the county? If so, come and join us

Future meetings:

11 September – Meeting with Council – Aberaeron – Penmorfa, 2pm to 4pm 10 October – Strategic Equality Plan SEP Engagement Group – CAVO offices – Lampeter, 1pm to 3pm 20 November – Open meeting – Cardigan – Maes Mwldan, 1pm to 3 pm 21 January – Meeting with the Council – Penmorfa, 1:30pm to 3:30pm 11 March – review of the year – Aberystwyth – St Pauls Methodist Centre, 1pm to 3pm

If you inform us beforehand of any communication support or accessibility requirements you have, we will attempt to meet these wherever possible.

For more information contact CAVO: 01570 423232

Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council 11 Physiotherapy/Occupational Therapy Workshop Working together to help support children and young people achieve their goals.

Please join us for this workshop open to parents / Carers and anyone supporting children and young people with additional physical needs.

Workshop with Specialist Paediatric Physiotherapists Caryl Davies and Helen Evans and Paediatric Occupational Therapist, Nerys Griffiths

There will be opportunities to share and support each other with good practices

Tuesday 10 September Refreshments will be provided but please bring something for 9:30am - 2:30pm lunch or the canteen is open 12- 2pm

Ystwyth Room Please ring / email to book your place or if you have any Ceredigion County queries Council Contact Details: Disabled Children’s Team: 01970 627016 Penmorfa, Aberaeron [email protected] SA46 0PA [email protected] Supported by Rachel Monrowe, Specialist Health visitor / Key worker, Tîm Plant Anabl

PDA Society Workshop PDA for Parents/Carers

Join us on this one day workshop for parents/carers and those supporting children and young people with the autism profile of Pathological Demand Avoidance

The session is packed with information but due to time constraints is not designed as an interactive workshop. The session will provide an overview of PDA, consider what demands are, explore strategies that might be beneficial, signpost to additional resources and provide an opportunity to meet other parents, carers and interested people. All participants are requested to watch a 10 minute introductory webinar prior to attending the course: https://www.ndti.org.uk/our-work/our-projects/ peoples-health/pda/

Wednesday 6 November Please bring your own lunch. 9:30am - 3pm Refreshments will be available free of charge. Ystwyth Room You can ring Tîm Plant Anabl on 01970 627016 or email to book Ceredigion County your place, places limited so please book in advance: Council [email protected] Penmorfa, Aberaeron If you have any queries please contact Rachel Monrowe, Health SA46 0PA Lead, Tîm Plant Anabl on 01970 627016 or [email protected]

12 Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council

Early Intervention  Early intervention is a service for children and their families who need extra support where there is a developmental delay or emerging diagnosis.  Early Intervention work aims to help with things that make life difficult for the children and their families.  For early intervention to be effective, parents/ Carers must be committed to carrying out agreed activities/strategies consistently and on a regular basis with their child. Your Childcare Offer in Ceredigion: We Will:  Do you earn on average, a weekly  Work in partnership with parents to minimum equivalent of 16 hours at strengthen parental capacity and family national minimum wage or national living relationships. wage?  Support families engagement in their local  Is your child aged 3 or 4 years old?

community. If so, the Welsh Government might be able to fund  Work to enable all children and young people up to 30 hours per week of combined Childcare to reach their full potential. and Early Years Education for up to 48 weeks of  Provide advice and assistance to empower the year. children and families. For further information, to check your eligibility and  Hold regular workshops and groups to apply visit: support parents/Carers in Ceredigion. www.ceredigion.gov.uk/childcareoffer

For more information contact Aimee Roberts: For further information, please contact: E-mail: [email protected] Clic Ceredigion on 01545 570881 Phone: 01970 627016 or e-mail: [email protected] Mobile: 07794238194

Pupil Development Grant – Access Get £125 to buy school uniform, equipment, sports kit and kit for activities outside of school for your child.

Learners eligible for free school meals can apply for this grant for the 2019/20 school year, if they are:

 entering reception class or year 3 in primary school  entering year 7 or year 10 in secondary school  aged 4, 7, 11 or 14 in special schools, special needs resource bases or pupil referral units

It will be possible to submit applications from 4 September 2019 onwards (deadline for the 2019/20 academic year will be 31 December 2019).

To apply visit: www.ceredigion.gov.uk/resident/ schools-education/school-uniform/

Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council 13 Young Carer News Ceredigion Young Carers and Young Adult Carers Service The service, run by Vikki Phillips and Olivia Draper-Jones, offers one to one support to children and young people between the ages of 8 to 25, who have a caring role or responsibility. They also provide breaks from your caring role, friendship, fun activities, community support groups and school drop-ins.

Look out for Vikki and Olivia visiting your school when the new term starts.

Schools visited When st rd Throughout the summer there are Penglais, Plas Crug, 1 and 3 Thursday of planned trips to: Penweddig and the month  Scolton Manor Fun Day Aberaeron  Oakwood Theme Park Llandysul, Cardigan 3rd Tuesday of the  Dyfed Shire Horse Farm Vikki Secondary, Cardigan month  Ceredigion Play Day Primary and Llechryd nd  Family Beach Day Lampeter and 2 Wednesday of the Newcastle Emlyn month The Cardigan Support Group have a busy schedule planned in the lead

up to Christmas, here are some of the activities that will be happening:  Beach visit Olivia  Meal out  Pottery painting  Ballet Theatre Show – The Wizard of Oz  A Christmas meal

For more information about how Action for Children can support you, call 01437 761330. You can also refer to the service on the same number or by visiting www.afcwestwales.org.uk.

The Mix – Essential support for under 25s

The Mix is a digital charity that provides information and emotional support to young people under the age of 25 through virtual channels - websites, mobile apps, social media and a helpline.

The mix can help support you through the stuff that life throws at you, they can take on embarrassing problems, weird questions, and the please-don’t-make-me-say-it-out-loud thoughts you might have.

You can talk about any challenge you are facing –from homelessness to finding a job, from money to mental health, from break-ups to drugs.

It is a free and confidential multi-channel service. That means that you choose how you access their sup- port, without the worry of anyone else finding out. You can talk to them by:

FREE Phone: 0808 808 4994 (7 days a week from 4pm to 11pm) Online chat: www.themix.org.uk Email: www.themix.org.uk/get-support/speak-to-our-team/email-us 24/7 Crisis text line: 85258

For more information, check out the website: www.themix.org.uk

14 Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council

Penglais School celebrates Carers Week

In the last issue of the Carers Magazine we told you about the Young Carers Hub which has been set up in Penglais School.

The Hub is a calm and relaxing place where the Young Carers can go to talk to each other and members of staff who are specifically trained to support Young Carers. The Young Carers can drop in at any time for help, support and guidance.

During Carers Week, staff members and Young Carers who use the Hub raised awareness in the school. Members of staff wore Carers Week The Five Ways to Wellbeing are a wellbeing t-shirts and they had a wonderful cake to entice equivalent of ‘five fruit and vegetables a day’. It is people into the Hub. recommended that individuals build the Five Ways Raising awareness and supporting the resilience (which are described in the boxes below) into their and wellbeing of Young Carers has been fully daily lives to improve their wellbeing. The Five Ways to embedded in the school’s development plan throughout the last year and will continue to be a Connect...with the people around you. priority in the future. With family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. The school have recently appointed Be active...Go for a walk or run. Step Young Carer outside. Cycle. Play a game. Exercising Ambassadors who makes you feel good. help to welcome Take notice...Be curious. Catch sight of new members into the beautiful. Remark on the unusual. the Hub and will Notice the changing seasons. help the Year 6 pupils settle in Keep learning...Try something new. Rediscover an old interest. Sign up for that September. course. Set a challenge you will enjoy achieving. Give...Do something nice for a friend, or a stranger. Thank someone. Smile. Volunteer your time. Join a community group.

Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council 15 Council Tax reduction

The Welsh Government is making it easier for people living with severe mental impairments to get big discounts and rebates on their council tax bills.

Council tax discounts for the Severely Mentally Impaired (SMI) were introduced across England, Scotland and Wales as long ago as 1992. However, according to the MoneySavingExpert website, many people who are eligible are not getting the discounts they are entitled to.

The Welsh Government has become the first to standardise the information it gives about the rebates and to offer one simple application form across all its 22 local councils.

Anyone entitled to the discount in Wales will be able to backdate the rebate to the date they received their diagnosis.

What is the severe mentally impaired discount? A "severely mentally impaired" person is defined as someone living with a severe impairment of intellectual and social functioning, which appears to be permanent - such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, learning difficulties or following a stroke.

To claim the SMI discount, they need to be certified as being SMI by their doctor, and also be eligible for one of a range of benefits, such as Incapacity or Attendance Allowance or Universal Credit.

If both apply, this will mean a 25% council tax discount if they live with another person or exempt the person entirely if they live alone.

If you think you or the person you care for could be entitled to a discount, you can apply by filling in an online form at www.ceredigion.gov.uk/resident/council-tax/forms/ or by calling 01970 633253.

Changes to TV licences for over 75s

Earlier this year the government announced that they would no longer be funding free television licences for people who are over 75, but this does not include everybody.

What does this mean? The current scheme will come to an end in June 2020, anyone who has a free licence at the moment will continue to be covered up until 31 May 2020.

The new scheme will mean that anyone who is 75 or over and receives Pension Credit will still be eligible for a free TV licence which will be paid for by the BBC. If nobody in your household is 75 or over and in receipt of Pension Credit you will need to buy a licence if one is needed.

If you already have a free licence, you do not have to do anything now, TV Licencing will write to you before May next year to let you know how you can pay for your next licence.

If you think you may be eligible to receive Pension The current cost of the different TV licences are: Credit and will then qualify for a free over 75 licence after June 2020, you can find out more at: Colour TV £154.50 www.gov.uk/pension-credit/eligibility or by calling Black and White TV £52.00 0800 99 1234. Care home residents £7.50 You can pay your licence all in one go or spread the cost, see www.tvlicensing.co.uk or call Registered as blind 50% reduction in your 0300 790 0368 for more information. licence fee

16 Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council New Support Group in Bow Street ‘Meet others who understand and are experiencing the Dementia journey.’

Vicky Hicks, Carer Lead from the Older Adult Community Mental Health Team in Ceredigion has been working hard to bring a support group for Carers of people with dementia to the north of the county for some time. Finding funding was essential for starting the group and when the Ceredigion Carers Fund opened in November last year, with the backing of a number of Carers, Vicky successfully submitted a group application and has been able to get the group up and running.

The group used the money they received from the Carers Fund to buy a lots of games, activities, art materials and electronic tablets to be used during the meetings.

‘Our Group’ describe themselves as “a group of Carers who come together to support each other through our journey of caring for loved ones with a Dementia or a cognitive impairment.” The group held their first meeting in June and meet every 2 weeks, on a Monday afternoon, in Afallen Deg, Bow Street, SY24 5AZ. The group’s future plans include inviting speakers from different agencies to come and provide advice on caring and the support that is available and also to organise days out and activities that promote health and wellbeing.

For more information please contact Vicky Hicks on 01970 635844

Forget Me Knot Club

Are you a Carer for someone with memory loss? Then please bring them along to our

Friday Coffee & Lunch Club 10:30am – 1:30pm At RAY Ceredigion, Pengloyn, Tabernacle Street, Aberaeron, SA46 0BN Phone: 01545 570686

A weekly relaxed social group with home cooked lunch, tea, coffees & cake. 2 Course lunch £5 per person (prepared and cooked by young people’s cooking group)

Programme of activities:

Aug 16 Singing entertainment with Robbie Lee Aug 23 Fun and games activities Aug 30 VISIT Sculpture Heaven, Rhydlewis (Depart RAY 10am) Sep 6 Creative fun with Community Artist Pod Clare Sep 13 Fun and games activities Sep 20 Lampeter Ukulele Band Sep 27 Pool and footy friendly match

The Margaret & Alick Potter Charitable Trust

Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council 17 New to Caring? - What you need to know Whether you are a husband, wife, son, daughter, friend or neighbour, if you are providing unpaid care to a friend or loved one you need to recognise yourself as a Carer in order to seek the help and support you need. Here are some tips to assist you in your new caring role: Carers Needs Assessment

You are entitled to a Carer’s assessment in your assessment can be arranged to take place in own right that is separate from the assessment private, at a mutually convenient time and of the person you care for. You are entitled to location. this whatever your age and it must include whether you are able/willing to carry out the This booklet explains the aims of a Carer’s caring role, the outcomes you wish in daily life needs assessment and what and whether you work, or wish to work or wish to happens during a Carer’s access education, training or recreational needs assessment. activities. You can request a Carer’s The purpose of a Carer’s assessment is for needs assessment and a Ceredigion County Council to find out what your copy of the assessment needs as a Carer are in case there are services leaflet by contacting Social or support that you can access locally to support Services Porth Gofal. your wellbeing while you carry out your caring Phone: 01545 574000 role. PLEASE NOTE: A Carers Needs Assessment is Your assessment is usually carried out in your not an assessment of your ability to look after home. However, sometimes this can be difficult the person you are caring for. for certain issues to be discussed. If you feel that there are issues which need to be discussed away from the person you care for, your

Register yourself as a Carer Emergencies

with your G.P Many Carers like to manage alone

Make your G.P aware that you are without outside help, but worry providing a substantial amount of care. about what to do if certain situations arise. They will make a note on your records that you are a It helps if you have had a chance Carer and maybe able to prepare so that you know what to help you with flexible to do if ever faced with an appointments, a health emergency, either during the day, check up etc. but this or at night, or weekends. will vary so it is best to speak There are various precautions you with the Carer Lead, if the can take and information available surgery has one, or the that can help you plan for an emergency. Practice Manager. You will find more information on their The Carers and the Emergency Guide helps you create a notice board in the surgery. contingency plan in case of an emergency. Phone 01545 574000 to request a copy of ‘Being Prepared’.

18 Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council Carers Information Service Carer’s Emergency Card Scheme Join the Carers Information Service to receive: Many Carers like to manage alone without outside help, but worry about what to do if  Regular Carers Information Service certain situations arise. magazines  Useful information relating to services, Do you worry about what would happen to the support, legislation etc which will be tailored to person you look after if you were suddenly taken your individual needs ill or had an accident? If the answer is “yes” then the Carer’s Emergency Card Scheme is the  Information relating to the Carers Forum which service for you. meets regularly to share support, information

and friendship How does the service work?  Information about events for Carers You register with the service by completing a  Information about relevant training courses registration/contingency plan form. This form holds information about you, the person you look  Notification about consultations taking place after and the action that needs to be taken in the on local and national issues. This is your event of an emergency. opportunity to have a voice on issues affecting

Carers Is there a charge? No, the service is free for Carers. If you are new to caring or perhaps have not seen this magazine before, you can register with For further information on the Carers Emergency the Carers Information Service to receive the Card Scheme, please contact Porth Gofal on above benefits. The Carers Information Service 01545 574000. is FREE to join.

If you would like to join the Carers Information Service to receive the benefits listed, please contact us by phone, email or letter or complete the form on page 24 and return it to the Carers Unit.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

The telephone number for the Emergency Duty Team for Social Care has changed.

From September 2018 the new telephone number to contact Social Care Out of Hours in an emergency is:

0300 456 3554

Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council 19 Useful Contacts

Hafal Ceredigion helps people with serious WWAMH is involved in a broad mental illness and their families to work towards range of activities to promote recovery. All our services are underpinned by mental health and help ensure that Hafal’s Recovery Programme which empowers everyone has access to independent and impartial clients and families to take control of their lives and information. achieve recovery. Contact Ruth Wilson/Wayne Hurley Telephone: 01267 245572 Tel: 01970 624 756 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.wwamh.org.uk

CAVO promotes & supports voluntary Gweithdy HUTS Workshop community action throughout We offer creative workshop Ceredigion. Become a CAVO opportunities to people over 18 who member to access our full range of are suffering from mental health challenges or learning disabilities. support and advice services. We also offer Befriending services to the South Ceredigion area. All services require a Telephone: 01570 423232 referral from a GP, CMT, Social Worker or other Email: [email protected] Support Agency. Website: www.cavo.org.uk Telephone: 01239 710377 Website: www.hutsworkshop.org

The Alzheimer’s Society Mencap work in partnership with people with a provides help and support to learning disability, and all our services support people to live life as they choose. people living with any form of dementia and their Carers in a The Wales Learning variety of ways. Disability Helpline: 0808 808 1111 Telephone: 01269 597690 Email: Email:[email protected] [email protected] Website: www.alzheimers.org.uk Website: www.mencap.org.uk

The Citizens Advice Bureau West Wales Domestic Abuse Service provides free impartial and Aberystwyth – 01970 625585 confidential advice on debt, Cardigan - 01239 615385 benefit, employment, E-mail: [email protected] consumer, housing, relationship and many other Website: www.westwalesdas.org.uk issues.

Ceredigion Helpline: 01239 621974

Every day, the Royal Ceredigion Social Services offers quick and easy Agricultural Benevolent access to advice and information about the Institution (R.A.B.I) is helping Department's services and the range of other resources available both locally and nationally. farming communities in your area. We give out close to £2m per year in grants and support around Telephone: 01545 574000 2,000 families across Wales and England. Email: [email protected] For further information go to: www.rabi.org.uk Website:www.ceredigion.gov.uk email: [email protected] FREEPHONE CONFIDENTIAL HELPLINE: 0808 281 9490 20 Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council Useful Contacts

Carers UK: for expert information and advice Home from Hospital about caring. This 7 day a week service is free of charge and A number of information leaflets and booklets are provides up to four visits a week for up to six available for Carers from Carers UK. weeks. We can: Advice line: 0808 808 7777  Help you with shopping

(open Monday to Friday,10am - 4pm)  Collect prescriptions  Help with light housework and laundry Email: [email protected] Website: www.carersuk.org Telephone: 07931 462559 Email: [email protected]

Older Persons Service Benefits Enquiries Are you 50 or over and living in Ceredigion or North Pembrokeshire? To claim Benefits - ON LINE or: 0800 055 6688 If yes, did you know that you are eligible for help Primary Benefits & Signing Off 0800 169 0310 and assistance from our support officers at no cost to you. The aim of the service is to improve quality Universal Credit Service Centre 0800 328 9344 of life and assist individuals to be as independent as Social Fund 0800 169 0140 possible in the home of their choice. Maternity Allowance 0800 055 6688 Telephone: 01239 712031 Bereavement Service helpline 0800 731 0469 Email: [email protected] Carers Allowance 0800 731 0297 Disability Living Allowance 0800 121 4600 Age Cymru Ceredigion: Byw Adref Attendance Allowance 0800 731 0122 We offer help and support with: house- hold chores, laundry, ironing, shop- Report benefit fraud 0800 854 440 ping, etc. All for £13.50 per hour. Tax Credits 0345 300 3900

Child Benefit 0300 200 3100 Telephone: 01239 615556 Email: [email protected] Pension Service 0800 731 0469 Website: www.agecymru.org.uk/ceredigion Healthy Start 0345 607 6823 National Insurance Enquiries 0300 200 3500

Age Cymru Ceredigion Post Office Card Helpline 0345 722 3344 provides services and Council Tax / Housing Benefit 01970 633 252 support for anyone aged 50+, their families and PIP -New Claims 0800 917 2222 Carers living in Ceredigion. PIP - General Enquiries 0800 121 4433 Telephone: Aberystwyth: 01970 615151 Cardigan: 01239 615777

Website: www.ageuk.org.uk/cymru/ceredigion/

GP Out of Hours Services

The Hywel Dda GP Out of Hours Service provides cover for urgent medical problems only, for the whole of Saturdays, Sunday and Bank Holidays, as well as between 6.30pm and 8am Monday to Fridays.

Residents in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire can dial 111 for free if they need urgent medical advice when their surgery is closed.

Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council 21 Carers Forum news

The Carers Forum is a friendship and support done on these issues/ group, made up of Carers who are currently subjects and we are caring for someone who cannot manage without still looking into how their help. Forum members come together to we can bring you more explore shared experiences, talk about the issues of this to help you all in that are important to them and to provide mutual your caring roles support for each other. through training, the

What have we been doing? forum and through Every year we ask you what you would like to see future Carers happening in the forum and for Carers in events….watch this Ceredigion. Here are some of your ideas from space. 

January that we have already put in motion: With the introduction of

the new Gofalwyr  You said you wanted more Carers Forum Ceredigion Carers meetings without rigid agenda/structure - open Service in the county from 1st April, there will be for Carers to ‘just talk’….plus cake!  - so some new faces and some familiar faces for many that’s exactly what we did in the May meeting – of you – knowing who you are speaking to and brought you together and helped along the being able to ‘put a face to a name’ is very conversation and chat with tea, coffee and important. Sue Lee from Gofalwyr Ceredigion Welsh cakes. We hope you enjoyed. More of Carers dropped into the May Carers Forum meeting those sessions to come later in the year…. to introduce herself and give a brief overview of how  You said you wanted to focus this year on your the service can help Carers. See pages 4 to 7 for support networks; the focus of Carers week this more information about Sue and the services year is ‘Getting Carers Connected’ so we provided by Gofalwyr Ceredigion Carers. brought you a range of organisations with whom you could connect with on the day and with the The Carers Forum is open to all Carers of all various support groups, meetings, events and situations and caring responsibilities; you can join training that they run in the community on a the Forum by contacting the Ceredigion Carers more regular basis. The Community Connectors Unit, see page 23 for details. (see page 8) joined us for the July meeting, they helped us explore our existing support Future meeting dates networks. Wednesday 25 September  You Said you wanted more ideas and 1:30pm to 3:30pm knowledge about the impact/stress of the caring Ystwyth Room, Penmorfa, Aberaeron role on Carers’ Mental health; we brought you Care Inspectorate Wales will be starting a series of engagement sessions within Ceredigion to be tasters and sessions on different types of self- held over the next couple of months. They are care in the Relax and Recharge day to recharge interested to meet with the Carers Forum, and to yourselves emotionally and mentally on the day hear Carers views about caring for someone but also things that you can potentially access over the age of 65 years of age who may use after the event whether it’s an hour appointment services from Ceredigion Social Services. Huw with an alternative therapist, reminding you of ap Tegwyn from Care Inspectorate Wales will how connecting to nature/taking fresh air on a join us for the afternoon. brief walk or even making time in the day for a 2 Thursday 21 November minute pause to be in the moment and breathe Carers Rights Day event deeply. details to follow

If you didn’t make it to any of the Carers Forum Wednesday 15 January 2020 meetings this year or the Carers Relax and 1:30pm to 3:30pm Recharge Day in Carers Week, don’t worry – we Ystwyth Room, Penmorfa, Aberaeron know there’s still lots more work to be Topic TBC

22 Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council Magazine Notes The Carers Information Service is maintained as a confidential register by the Carers Unit, separate to Social Services. Therefore, the Carers Unit will not automatically be made aware if your situation alters. If your circumstances change during the time you are on the Carers Information Service and you no longer wish to receive mailings, please write, telephone or email us to let us know. You will continue to receive information unless you, family or professionals supporting you notify us of a change. In such instances we will aim to ensure nothing further is sent as soon as we are notified. Due to changes in data protection legislation, current members of the Carers Information Service should expect to be contacted in the coming months to update your details. We are required to do this and you will have to respond in order to carry on receiving copies of the magazine and other information.

The Carers Information Service Magazine was brought to you by:

Susan Kidd: Co-ordinator Heather West, Sara Humphreys, Ros Woodcraft & Catherine Moyle: Editorial support

The Carers Information Service Magazine is also available online: www.ceredigion.gov.uk/carersinformation

The winter issue will be out in December 2019.

What do you want to see in the Carers Information Service Magazine? We would very much welcome your input. Please send us your suggestions for news - local or national; articles; book reviews; pictures; poems; quizzes; hints and tips etc, be they serious, fun or both.

Contact details

Carers Unit Ceredigion County Council Canolfan Rheidol Rhodfa Padarn Llanbadarn Fawr Aberystwyth, SY23 3UE

Telephone: 01970 633564 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ceredigion.gov.uk/carers

We reserve the right to edit articles received. The information in this magazine is intended as guidance and opinions expressed may not be those of Ceredigion County Council or Hywel Dda University Health Board. Neither are any articles nor products given as recommendations on behalf of Ceredigion County Council, they are reported for the reader to consider and form a personal opinion. All sources/ references are credited wherever they have been provided/made available. Thanks are further expressed to sources of information, which by being passed on through this magazine are beneficial to Carers in Ceredigion.

Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council 23

Join the Carers Information Service

Form also available online at www.ceredigion.gov.uk/carersregister

Title & full name:

Address:

Postcode:

Date of Birth:

Telephone number:

Email address: Speaking Welsh / English Language Paper correspondence Welsh / English preference: Electronic correspondence Welsh / English

I don’t

Your support needs X know

Would you like Ceredigion County Council to send you a Carers Information Pack?

Would you like us to refer you to the Gofalwyr Ceredigion Carers support service for information, practical and emotional support?

Would you like to discuss receiving a Carers needs assessment?

Would you like to be referred to Action for Children Young Carers or Young Adult Service (support for Young Carers aged 8 - 25)?

By signing this form, I verify that the above information is correct to the best of my knowledge, and that Ceredigion Social Services or the support organisations referred to above may contact me if I have requested further support. I understand that the details given on this form will be treated confidentially and used under the terms of the General Data Protection Regulations.

Signed: ...... Date: ......

24 Carers Unit, Ceredigion County Council