Hello Everyone – When you just need a break!

This weekend I had a break from my usual routine, not my caring role but a break nonetheless.

My husband, dog and I, collected Dad and went to visit my Mum, what’s different about that, I hear you ask. well nothing apart from it is rare for all us to go see Mum. We had a wonderful time and I am so grateful Mum, still knows who Phil is and more importantly LOL my dog Albus.  Albus is such a loving and kind dog, he went to the living room and said hello to all the staff and residents and went down a storm.

I hear you cry “when is he getting to the point”, after visiting Mum we all went off to stay the weekend with friends and what I have mentioned before my London family.  We have not managed to see each other since December 2020 in-between the lockdowns when it was my friends fiftieth birthday.  What a welcome break and what a change of routine, just what I needed.

I mentioned London family or my alternative family and this is common for people from the LGBTQ+ community, you make friends and I mean real friends, normally through house sharing due to the high rents and you become a family.  Many of my friends had a hard time coming out with family and people and then come to a city or town and choose their own family.  My friends i caught up with are a mixture of gay men, heterosexual men and women who are now married and have their own children, one of which has come out as gay and unfortunately is having a hard time being bullied at school.  Of course we all took him in our arms, hugged, advised, and gave him coping mechanisms to survive this difficult stage in his life.  

It really was break and I needed it.  

And then I was robbed, Albus only came in sixth as the most handsome dog at another charity and local dog show.  I really was a stage mother LOL

So having a break is crucial to good wellbeing and where possible I urge you to do this.  As you know we work with the London Buddhist Centre and free retreats are available to carers.  Of course there is a waiting list but if you have considered the retreat and then thought you needed extra support for your loved one to enable you to attend and feel confident then we are working with AGE UK who can provide extra support, you will need to request this when your name comes up and you are offered a place and then you tell us what you need.  Age UK will then assess and see if they can provide what you require and hopefully it all matches up and off you go.

Sometimes what you need and what can be offered does not match up but let’s see what we can do.

Benefits of breaks of all types:

• Increases productivity 
• Improves mental health and well-being 
• Employees feel more valued by their organization and supervisor if they promote taking breaks 
• Increases job satisfaction 
• Restores focus and attention, especially for long term goals 
• Can prevent decision fatigue 
• Increases creativity 
• Promotes healthy habits 
• Movement breaks are helpful for emotional and physical health 
• “Rest” helps consolidate memories and improves learning 

Always Check out the  https://ccth.org.uk/new/calendar/     for fun, activities, workshops and treatments 

 

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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. 

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.

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Feedback from the Carers Forum

Wednesday 20th July was our monthly Carers Forum and what a success we had with – Pitch your Ideas for future inclusive, sustainable activities.

Carers pitched their ideas and we had four great suggestions, this now leaves me to do research, costings and see how feasible it will be

1. Swimming Group
2. First Aid – weekly workshops on a topic
3. access to Art, Pottery at Adult Education courses
4. cookery course
5. Islamic Art course .
6. Outing group – but I have to admit this might not fit the criteria but doing my research.

So watch this space and keep checking the blog, calendar and newsletter for news.

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This Week’s Activities

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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/ 

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Win All Points East tickets

The borough’s award-winning Victoria Park will once again be the place to experience the greatest nights of music from the world’s best live acts and discover your new favourite bands, with the return of music festival Luno presents All Points East 2022 this August.

Recognised as one of summer’s essential events, the festival will take place on Friday August 19 and Saturday August 20 and then the whole August bank holiday weekend from Thursday August 25 to Sunday August 28.

In The Neighbourhood

A free-to-enter community festival hosted in partnership with the council is also back this year with activities and entertainment for the whole family. The vibrant programme taking place in Victoria Park from Sunday 21 to Wednesday 24 August includes outdoor cinema, live music, circus, theatre, arts, eco initiatives, sports and wellbeing, children’s educational activities and loads more, plus street food and pop up bars. VIP tickets for various festival days are up for grabs.

Win tickets >

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Anti-social Behaviour week

This week is Anti-social behaviour week and our THEOs, Safer Communities Team, Tower Hamlets Homes, police, Parkguard, Police Safer Neighbourhoods Teams and Tower Hamlets Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator have been patrolling across the borough.

They have engaged with residents, giving crime prevention advice and supporting them to report ASB, as well as carrying out weapon sweeps and helping vulnerable people.

Report ASB here >

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Feeding the Hamlets – a new exhibition at the Local History Library & Archives

For centuries, the East End’s landscape and social and economic history have been influenced by the growing, trading or manufacturing of food. Before 1800 farmland and market gardens characterised the area, but rapid industrialisation saw this pastoral tradition give way to the factories and warehouses producing food for mass consumption nationwide and globally. Close proximity to the docks ensured that food businesses based in the East End had ready access to a fresh supply of raw ingredients, within many supplies imported from countries colonised by Britain.

The exhibition looks at the methods and sites where food production took place, as well as the people who were involved. A programme of free events is taking place to explore the exhibition’s themes in more detail. Sign up to our newsletter for all the details.

Feeding the Hamlets will run until early 2023. If you would like to bring a group or class for a tour or workshop inspired by the display, please get in touch at localhistory@towerhamlets.gov.uk

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Open water swimming in Canary Wharf

Canary Wharf’s first open water swimming venue, in partnership with Love Open Water, is now open! This safe open water swimming venue means that residents, visitors and workers can take a dip in the waters of Middle Dock while enjoying iconic views of the surrounding area.

The water is regularly tested and cleaned using the latest technology and every session is lifeguarded, so it can be enjoyed by all abilities and skill levels over the age of 10.

More info  >

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An action packed programme of summer activities

The council and partner organisations have so much to offer for children and families this summer, as they team up to host hundreds of events and activities to support families during the school summer break, aid recovery from the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and encourage residents to explore their local environment.

The action-packed programme of summer activities includes sport, park activities, farm visits, cooking and baking, gardening sessions, nature activities, theatre and drama, skills training and more. Most of the activities are free and some include a free, healthy meal.

What’s on >

 

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Liveable Streets

Liveable Streets consultations are currently ongoing – and we’d like all those who live and/or work in the areas of Wapping, Weavers Ward, Brick Lane, and Old Bethnal Green Road to fill in the consultations. Some consultations close as early as July 31 2022.

If you receive a letter in the post asking you to participate, please use the code included and fill in the consultation form so you can share your views with the council. If you live outside the areas, but would like to complete the consultations, please visit our website for more information on how to complete the forms. You can find more information and fill in the surveys online.

Have your say >

 

State of caring of survey – please click link and complete

Carers UK are delighted to launch our State of Caring 2022 survey this week, and we would be really grateful for your help in encouraging carers to take part. All the information we get from carers helps us to build a picture of what caring is like at the moment and we are keen to hear from as many different carers as possible.

https://www.carersuk.org/news-and-campaigns/state-of-caring-survey-2022

The annual State of Caring survey is the UK’s most comprehensive research into the lives and experience of carers. We want to understand carers’ priorities for the future and what support they need to help recover from the pandemic, and to create a positive legacy for the future. We will use the evidence to continue to campaign for carers to get better support. We know that our evidence has helped shaped Government policy and has helped commissioners and service delivery organisations look at practice.  

 Last year, we used carers’ collective voice and evidence to secure new rights for carers in the Health and Social Care Act 2022 in England, to campaign for cost of living increases in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, to provide evidence of the need for a right to Carer’s Leave and other support within the workplace, and to campaign for breaks and funding for social care – and there’s still much more to do!  

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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.

 

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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  

Make, register or end LPA 

Call us on 0207 790 1765 or email enquiries@ccth.org.uk to find out more about LPA. 

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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 >

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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.

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