Free help and support available for Dorset carers

A series of free workshops offering practical information and advice for Dorset’s growing army of carers will take place around the county this month.

Run by local charity Help and Care, the events are open to anyone who cares for a friend or family member and will provide friendly guidance on key issues such as first aid, dealing with dementia, and coping with terminal illness.

Crucially, the workshops also offer people the chance to meet up with others in similar situations, make new friends and build up support networks.

There are more than 50,000 carers looking after loved ones in Dorset, often in isolation and with very little outside help.

Organised in partnership with Dorset HealthCare and Dorset County Council, the workshops can provide a real lifeline.

Kathy Goodall, facilitator for carers training with Help and Care, said:

“People who have attended previous events really enjoyed them. They have picked up a lot of useful information, and learned more about what support is available for carers.

“They have also benefited from talking to other people dealing with the same sorts of issues. They realise they are not on their own. Often, people make new friends and come away feeling more in control, more empowered.

“The workshops are very friendly and informal, and there is plenty of time for questions and discussions. We just want to get the word out and encourage more carers to come along.”

March’s workshops all take place from 10am-2pm and include:

• 10 March – End of Life Care (The Dorford Centre, Dorchester)
• 14 March – Memory Loss (Wareham Scout and Guide HQ)
• 15 March – Personal Care (Church House, Wimborne)
• 24 March – Basic First Aid (Christchurch Library)

To book a place or find out more information, contact Help and Care on 0300 1113303 or email carerstraining@helpandcare.org.uk

More details are also available online at www.helpandcare.org.uk