Torbay’s unpaid carers ‘take a break’

Published: 29 June 2021

Unpaid carers from across Torbay enjoyed a host of events in June for some well-deserved fun and relaxation. This was timed to coincide with National Carers Week 2021.

Carers Week celebrates the essential, and often unsung, role of unpaid carers. Torbay Carers Services put together a range of events supported by local organisations and the Royal Collection Trust, to take place not just across the Bay in person, but also online in the comfort of carers’ homes. This meant they could enjoy London tours, exercise sessions and workshops if it was hard for them to get out or if they had concerns about being in person. 

The events ranged from mosaics, pitch and putt, breadmaking, scented wax melts, a tour of Windsor Castle and a return trip on the Dartmouth Steam Railway and Riverboat Company to Dartmouth, plus many other activities; all aimed at promoting the wellbeing of carers and highlighted this year’s theme of ‘Making Caring Visible & Valued’.

Katy Heard, Carers’ and Volunteers’ Lead at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This year we felt it was particularly important to put on a variety of events, so whatever the restrictions, carers would have a chance to have a break from their caring role, to say ‘thank you’ for all that they do. Carers Services staff worked really hard to make it as positive for carers as possible, from delivering cream teas, to organising both online and face-to-face events.”

Natalie Townsend, Carers’ Services Coordinator, said: “It was great to be able to offer carers such a varied selection of events following the stressful time they have had during the pandemic, on top of their already demanding role as a carer. Getting out and about I was able to meet many of you at the various events and it was super to see you taking time out for yourselves, going home with something you’d made and having a spot of relaxation on the Dartmouth Steam Train. It is so important that we recognise our unpaid carers and provide them with opportunities to take time-out from the support they provide. Carers Week really does provide us with the perfect opportunity to celebrate the often unsung contribution unpaid carers make within our local communities.” 

The feedback from carers who attended the events has been really positive.

“I had such a wonderful time to get away…. just for me, couldn’t have come at a better time. Thanks for this opportunity.”

“Had a wonderful time of being able to focus on something else apart from caring and Carl made everything look easy! Also tasted amazing…. thank you!”

If someone in Torbay relies on you because they are getting older, or have a disability or mental health / drug / alcohol issue, please contact Signposts for Carers on 01803 666620, email Signposts for Carers or visit www.torbayandsouthdevon.nhs.uk.