Hello Everyone – It’s non-stop this caring lark….
Firstly, I wanted to say, I hope you all manged with the heat and it was to traumatic? I personally am not a fan and I found it a little difficult but I changed my routine, had the fan on 24/7, went to the beach and slept.
However, after my successes last week with Mum and Dad that all changed this weekend as Dad had a fall due to being unsteady on his feet as he’d got some glass in his foot. I asked why did you not have to slippers on, because my toenails area too long as I have been waiting for two months for the Chiropodist to come and do my nails, as they have to do it due to my Diabetes .
So Dad has been admitted to hospital, his head is alright as he banged it falling, he is due to have a operation to remove the glass but he is resting and taking it easy. I am on duty this week as my Sister is having a much needed week away by the coast but she very caringly took her Granddaughter, to gibe my Niece a break, my Sister is so good.
It is my Mum’s birthday on Wednesday and i am spending the day with her, making a cake, getting my Dad a present from him to her because he has never been on the ball in that department LOL
So wish me luck juggling my caring roles this week but thank goodness it is cooler, I will find it easier to manage.
I will say one thing and this is no surprise to all that know me –
It is my BIRTHDAY WEEK
I will be 21 again on Thursday, I am off work and it is my sixth Wedding Anniversary on Friday , so I hope to have a couple of restful days and fingers crossed.
I am looking forward to taking carers on the trip to the Tower of London Superbloom tomorrow – 16th August and I am sure we will have a relaxing, beautiful day.
There will not be a blog this Friday but I will be back next Monday – so have a restful and productive week and look after yourselves.
Don’t forget our workshop on carer roles, the different hats we wear and the different roles we undertake and If this resonates with you as a carer and I know for certain it will for some, then why not consider our new monthly Talking Therapy Workshops Each month the workshop will look at the many different aspects of a carer’s role. This follows on from an exercise we did on what carers had to undertake as part of their caring role supporting friends and family. For example, Researcher, Role model, Commissioner, Teacher, Influencer, Mentor, Community worker, Provider of high-level care, Expert at learning a new skill, Problem solver, Politician, Geneticist, advocate.
If this is something you would like information on and fancy learning skills to help you with the various aspects of your caring role then why not sign up for our first session on…
Tuesday 23rd August – @ The Carers Centre 2pm to 3pm
Don’t forget the SIX BEST DOCTORS IN THE WORLD ARE rest, nutrition, exercise, sunlight, self confidence, family & friends!
Important Numbers:
Domestic Violence Duty Line: 020 7364 4986 between 9am – 5pm.Victim Support: 020 7364 2448/7957
Tower Hamlets Connect/Adult Social Care : 0300 303 6070
We are Recruiting
Do you want to be part of a friendly and supportive team where you can support unpaid carers to know and access their rights and entitlements?
Do you have skills that can help a diverse community of carers to understand think about themselves, identify their needs and enable them to access the support they need?
You will be supported, line managed, and supervised by Mohammad, the Advocacy Team Manager, and you can contribute to the direction and aims of the Carers Centre Tower Hamlets.
Please inform us if you need any reasonable adjustment when undertaking this recruitment process.
This role could be possible as a part-time option
If this sounds like you then please apply on Charity Jobs with a CV and your supporting statement
https://www.charityjob.co.uk/jobs/carers-centre-tower-hamlets/carers-support-advocate/845940?tsId=6
Closing date is the 20th AUGUST 2022.
South Asian Heritage Month 2022
Celebrate Commemorate Educate
Finishes Wednesday 17th August 2022 so check out more details
https://www.southasianheritage.org.uk/
New £1m Emergency Energy Fund to help households
A new £1million Emergency Energy Fund is being set up by the council as part of ongoing support for residents during the cost-of-living crisis. The Energy Fund complements the recently introduced £2.7m cost of living package announced by Mayor Rahman last month.
Grants of up to £100 will be available for households shown through council data to be at the most severe risk of being unable to pay their fuel bills. Around £200,000 has already been earmarked for pensioners, and eligible residents will receive further details by the end of September.
Find out more >
Do you live near construction works in Tower Hamlets?
The council is committed to ensuring residents live in a healthy environment, whether that be through green spaces, restricting unhealthy adverts or even restricting noise or air pollution.
That’s why we’re inviting you to feedback on how continuous large-scale construction activity may have affected your health, and what measures you think could be taken to reduce these impacts in future.
Have your say >
WE ARE HERE
71 Leonard Street
London, England, EC2A 4QS
United Kingdom
Click here to find out more – https://freelondonbarbers.co.uk/
New photo collection shines spotlight on hidden older unpaid carers..
Older unpaid carers are being given the spotlight in our new photo collection. As part of the free-to-use age-positive image library, we’ve released a series of images illuminating the hidden and often underappreciated work of older unpaid carers as well as their lives outside of caring.
The project provides snapshots of older unpaid carers from Touchstone’s Sikh Elders Service and Bramley Elderly Action, both in in Leeds, and the Carers Centre Tower Hamlets.
As outlined in Ageing Better’s State of Ageing report, people aged 55-64 are most likely to be carers – more than 1 in 4 people in this age group (28%) provide some level of care to family, friends and loved ones. And estimates suggest there are over 2 million carers aged 65 and over, many providing round-the-clock care.
In offering more authentic portrayals of older carers through the image library, Ageing Better aims to help them feel more visible in society and better understood. Our aim is that the images better reflect the realities of older carers’ lifestyles and give the public an insight into what being an unpaid carer involves.
Nominated for two prestigious charity awards for its fresh approach to depicting older people, photographs in the image library have been viewed over 15 million times and accumulated over 85,000 downloads.
We’ve also published your blog to our website here. – check my blog entry
The photos are free for everyone to use and are available on Ageing Better’s website. The images will be useful for journalists and news organisations looking for fresh imagery to better illustrate their stories, as well as for a range of organisations looking to depict unpaid carers more realistically.
Emma Twyning, Director of Communications at the Centre for Ageing Better, said:
“The vast majority of care is provided by family and friends and yet this is rarely shown in the images of care we commonly see in public life. Through these new photographs we hope to increase understanding of the vital support unpaid carers provide, which is so often underappreciated across society.
“It is also important to be able to offer a more rounded depiction of older carers, and the lives they lead outside of their caring roles if they are able to access the right support. We hope that the images will help carers to feel more visible, appreciated, and understood.”
Antony Rathbone, Head of Communications & Marketing at Carers UK, said:
“We’re really excited to see these new photographs from the Centre for Ageing Better featuring older, unpaid carers who can so often be invisible or unrepresented, yet are so important to both those they care for and the wider community.
“With recent polling suggesting that there may be 2 million unpaid carers in the UK who are 65 or older, it’s vital that we share their stories, and make sure they are visible, valued and supported – and these photos can help us in showing them living their lives and help increase understanding of what being an older carer in the UK is like today.”
Tony Collins-Moore, Carers Wellbeing Academy Manager at Carers Centre Tower Hamlets, said:
“When I was asked if the Carers Centre Tower Hamlets would like to be part of Ageing Better’s project on older carers, I jumped at the chance.
“I have been working at the centre for twelve years I and am fully aware of the stereotypical images usually associated with carers and caring. I wanted to show how carers lived their best lives, had lives outside of caring and are incredible, vibrant people who are the backbone of our society.
“I’m so glad to have been a part of this amazing project, especially now, as a 57-year-old carer myself, I know carers need positive imagery that reflects the excellent support they give to others.”
Claire Turner, Chief Executive at Carers Leeds, said:
“It’s fantastic to have this set of images of older carers. Carers so often tell us they feel invisible, and this is one way we can help show what unpaid carers do, day in and day out.
“3 in 5 of us will become a carer at some point in our lives, so it’s important that we share realistic depictions of what caring for a family member, friend or neighbour really looks like.
“I am so pleased that the images also show life beyond caring. Being a carer is only one part of someone’s identity and we need to make sure that taking on a caring role doesn’t impact negatively on a carer’s own health and wellbeing.”
Older unpaid carers: A snapshot
https://ageingbetter.resourcespace.com/pages/home.php
This Week’s Activities
Always Check out the https://ccth.org.uk/new/calendar/ for fun, activities, workshops and treatments
Housing News
In order to even register for rehousing with LBTH now, you have to complete a scoping questionnaire and provide supporting documents etc. This means that in effect there are now 3 parts to the process. The rehousing process requires applicants to have full birth certificates for each member of the household and we need to let people know this because most people will only have the short form of their birth certificates to hand (we think this is for fraud prevention). We understand, it’s harder to get Birth certificates now because most of it has to be done online. We know this will adversely affect applications but obviously the council will say that it is a fraud prevention measure. We understand and it feels like they are trying to discourage applications but we want carers know this before we can give you an appointment.
If you are offered a housing appointment you must understand this process, you must bring all relevant documents as we can offer only one appointment and you will not be offered another one – sorry.
Following on, I wanted to do another shout to carers that we have a new group starting in September and already I have some carers who have joined but there are some places left if you fancy learning something new….
Open University Study Group
Learning is a great way to aid your wellbeing and the benefits are considerable. As part of partnership with Open University we have helped develop a Learning Guide for Carers, this guide is a tool to help carers access courses to suit all needs, likes and directions and now as part of our second stage, we are going to develop a study group, where you will be support by Tony. You will receive group and individual support, regular check ins and learn as a group but your learning is individual.
If this sounds like something that interests you then email tony@ccth.org.uk for a place, as places are limited.
We will start the study group in September.
When you have some minutes spare, you want to stay cool and listen to my soothing voice….
Listen to the Carers Ignite PODCAST
Why not listen to The Carers Centre Podcast – This is our first podcast and we are pleased with it. A couple of carers approached me to ask if we could broaden our social media and develop a podcast for carers, made by carers and supported by the centre. We approached Graham our Chief Exec and he was all for it and gave the green light and thanks to Chandrika and her producer skills and the wonderful Lloyd who is the co-host with myself we developed our first podcast.
We discuss being a male carer, barriers to men seeking support, carers wellbeing while having a laugh and fun. We will be producing further podcasts and welcome stories/themes and guests to email me tony@ccth.org.uk
https://ccth.org.uk/new/information/carers-ignite/
| Launch of Somali National Helpline 0800 6102020 |
Better Safe Communities are pleased to inform you of the launch of the first historic Somali National Helpline, sponsored by the local businesses up and down the country and in regards to poor service provisions of UK public services for Somali communities nationally.
The Helpline was founded by Khadra Hersi, a student of London Met University. It is aimed at the Somali community, helping with language barriers, immigration, and mental health issues due to war in their country. The Somali National Helpline are a service that uses professionals to support people overcome issues they are facing. They exist to support individuals with language matters, mental health issues, and beneficiaries to solve their problems. They also provide translating and interpreting services. They are here to support and advocate for many problems faced within the Somali community such as young adults suffering from knife crime, and elderly people who feel isolated and lonely due to language barriers.
Why do you need a Lasting Power of Attorney?
Does the person you look after making their own decisions but want help managing their money? Maybe they can make their own decisions now but want an arrangement in case they can’t in the future. Without a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) your family may need to go to Court. This can cause lots of hassle, delay, and expense.
There are 2 types of Lasting Power of Attorney; finances & property matters and decisions about health and care.
Why should you do it now?
- 1 in 3 of us will suffer dementia
- Many of us will retain mental capacity, but will physically struggle to manage our affairs at some point in our life
- Being married or asking your chosen person to act for you is not enough – you need to legally give them the power to help you
- If you leave making your Power of Attorney until you need it, it will be too late.
Carers Centre Partners
The Carers Centre Tower Hamlets is pleased to work in partnership with respected Law firms to provide carers with affordable support with LPA.
Jones Whyte are a Glasgow based multi award winning Solicitor firm and the reigning Law Firm of the Year 2021
- They prepare thousands of Powers of Attorney every year
- Have partnerships with many major national charities
- They offer competitive Power of Attorney fees £349 + vat
Carers Centre staff can refer you, or you can contact them yourself on 0330 175 1234 or email appointments@joneswhyte.co.uk
You can find our more about Jones Whyte here Power of Attorney – Solicitors Glasgow | Jones Whyte Law
Duncan Lewis Solicitors – “We believe in access to justice for the most vulnerable in society and do everything we can to ensure legal advice and support is available for those who need it most”.
Duncan Lewis Solicitors are a national firm with offices locally.
- They prepare thousands of Powers of Attorney every year
- They are available for face-to-face appointments at their local office (1 Kingsland High Street, Dalston, Hackney, London, E8 2JS) or surgeries at the Carers Centre if requested
- They offer competitive Power of Attorney fees £350 + vat
Carers Centre staff can refer you, contact us on 0207 790 1765 or at enquiries@ccth.org.uk
You can find out more about Duncan Lewis here https://www.duncanlewis.co.uk
Most solicitor firms support with LPA and carers are under no obligation to use either firm listed above and are free to seek support from any firm they choose.
What is I do not want to pay for support with LPA?
We also provide workshops and information for those who want to set up an LPA themselves, many people set up LPA without legal support. You can check our Calendar or give us a call for updates on our latest workshops.
You can also see the information links below for information.
Different ways to manage someone’s affairs
Call us on 0207 790 1765 or email enquiries@ccth.org.uk to find out more about LPA.
A carers guide to home fire safety
A new video resource has been launched on the London Fire Brigade website to help carers learn how to keep people that receive care safe from fire.
Sadly, around one third of those here who die or are severely injured by fire are in receipt of some form of care or support. If you are a formal (domiciliary care worker, support worker or clinician) or informal carer (family member, friend or neighbour) and are caring for someone in their own home, this new resource will help you identify fire risks and show you what you can do to reduce them. There is also more information available on the website around fire safety and prevention.
Watch the video >
WALKING ALONE? REMEMBER THESE 10 TIPS
1) Plan Your Route
Make sure you plan your route ahead of time. If you are walking in an area you are not familiar with, this can help keep you from getting lost. You will be able to walk with confidence. If you do get lost, don’t wander aimlessly, find a gas station, supermarket, or fast-food restaurant where you can ask for directions.
2) Make Sure Someone Else Knows Your Plans
Don’t go out when it is dark without telling someone, even if you are just taking the dogs out for a walk around your neighbourhood or walking home from a friend’s house nearby. It may seem paranoid, but in fact, knowing someone knows where you are can be reassuring and help you feel safe. If you fall and hurt yourself or run into trouble, and someone knows where you are, they can send help if you don’t arrive at your destination on time.
3) Always Carry Your Phone with You
Always carry your phone, but not for music or to make social calls as your walk. Your phone can be a lifeline if you see something suspicious or worse if something happens to you. Download a safety app on your phone, so you’ll be able to discreetly alert the authorities if you feel threatened or see something suspicious.
4) Avoid Suspicious People and Areas
Areas that are dark, deserted, or out-of-the-way, such as an alley or a parking lot, can be riskier than a well-lit area full of people. Stick to busy, lighted paths, to minimize the risks. Also, walk mainly in familiar places where you are known. That way, if you feel like a suspicious person is following you, you can always duck into a store you know or knock on a neighbour’s door. Avoid empty streets and pathways with thick shrubbery.
5) Keep Your Hands Free
Except for a flashlight and one of the items discussed below, keep your hands free. If you are carrying anything, put it all in one bag or backpack. This will make it easier for you to react if you notice someone following you. In a dangerous situation, carrying too many bags can keep you from moving as quickly as you can if your hands are free or if you only have one bag.
6) Carry a Non-Violent Deterrent
In addition to a flashlight, carry a non-violent deterrent such as a whistle, mace, or pepper spray. A whistle will help you alert others and call them to aid you if something is wrong. The loud noise may put off attackers, and they’ll move on to find someone else. Mace or pepper spray can give you enough time to evade a potential attacker, and in a pinch, a flashlight can be used as a weapon. Make sure you know how to use the mace or pepper spray to get its full effect.
7) Wear Reflective Clothing to Prevent Accidents
When it comes to personal safety, it’s not just about suspicious people. Areas with low visibility can be prone to accidents. Reflective clothing allows bikers and cars to see you as you walk along. A flashlight or headlight can also help drivers see you if there are dark stretches of road on your route.
8) Take a Self-Defence Class
When fighting off something as an assault, the element of surprise can work in your favour. If you regularly walk alone, take a self-defence class. You don’t have to become a black belt. In fact, it’s probably better to learn something like Krav Maga, which has been popular for self-defence. The idea is to disable your attacker enough for you to get to safety, and a class focused on self-defence will help give you those survival skills.
9) Remove Any Distractions
Keep your phone in your hand in case you need to hit the panic button on your safety app, but don’t let it distract you. When walking alone at night for exercise, music can be motivating and energizing but also distracting. You may not hear someone driving or walking up behind you. Avoid wearing headphones or talking on your phone as you walk.
10) Trust Your Gut
When walking alone at night, trust your gut. If you feel like an area or situation may be dangerous, don’t wait around to find out. Stop and scan your surroundings if you think someone is following you. If you are being followed, walk as quickly as you can to a well-lit public place. You can wait until you feel safe, or call a friend, a taxi, or an Uber to help you get safely get home at night.
Following these personal safety tips will help keep you stay safe when walking alone. Always be aware of where you are and alert to suspicious activity.
Opening hours
Monday - Friday – 9.30am – 5pm
Saturday and Sunday – Closed
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