Hello Everyone – Can you ever have enough breaks?

August 2nd, 2024

I have just returned from a week’s break and boy did I need it.  My little family took a trip up north and stayed with our best friends one, is the best cook ever and of course I am ruled by my stomach and the great food gave me solace.

We also visited my in-laws in Manchester and had a great time.  They have been so supportive since Dad died and Mum has Dementia.  It is amazing how much has changed in eight years since we got married, both our parents met for the first and only time but got on well.

As soon as I got back it was straight onto the caring role and dealing with care home charges, sorting out inept workers who promote wrong information and advice and dealing with the remarkable rapid change in my Mum.

I have mentioned it lately but I really thought that after the sale of Mum’s house that I might have an hiatus in the busyness of caring.  I do not mean having a break as I know this is it until it is not (if you get my meaning), I just mean that I really thought Mum could enjoy the money from the sale, we could do some wonderful family things but it is proving much more difficult than I imagined.

My sister and I are very worried as Mum is forgetting everything she, thought she could walk get out of bed and go home and wonders why Dad has not visited in a while.

What we are finding very sad and mentally exhausting is telling Mum that Dad has passed and watching the realisation, then grief spread across her face.  Mum is like me in the fact that we cannot hide our feelings and its written all over our faces.

Anyway back to my point I needed that break and I suspect many of you need one also ..

So, what do I advise – we have another three-night retreat coming up in September and priority will be given to carers who have not been before. I strongly advise any carer to go on one with meditation, walks, wonderful veggie food, activities, fun and most importantly relaxation.

If that is something that is not workable then come to an activity at the Carers Centre, it might only be a couple hours away from your caring role but it makers a difference and we have so many lovely wellbeing activities such as shared reading , walking and talking, Arts, Crafts & Conversation as well as a weekly drop in mini version of the retreat at the Buddhist Centre (it is a non religious event so anyone can go).

I also want to tell you about a new learning workshop I have developed called Understanding Grief and Loss – this two hour workshop explores what grief is and looks at how you can manage your grief and loss more positively so if any carer would like to attend then please email wellbeing@ccth.org.uk

I wanted to finish by wishing you all a peaceful weekend and relax if you can and go out meet a friend, have coffee, have a laugh, buy some new clothes, go dancing and just take breaks when you can.

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So, think about your wellbeing, connect with other carers who can support you, be proactive and try not to put off activities that help maintain better health and relax when you can.

Worried about your internet safety?

What on earth is SMISHING?!!!

A SMISH is a fake text from a scammer to get you to click on a link .  It might look something like this:

 

If you ARE expecting a parcel, don’t click on a link in a text.  Instead go back to the website where you ordered the item (e.g. Amazon, Argos) and check the delivery details there.  

You might be thinking that going to the shops is the best option, rather than having things delivered to your home. But it really can save you time and money. Sharron Currie says shopping online can be a great way to find supplies for hobbies. She sources all her wool online and has some trusted websites that she uses to get the right yarn for her projects. Hobbies are great for wellbeing, especially something like knitting, which you can pick up when you have a free moment. Her favourite sites are: 

If you’d like to hear more about how to spot dodgy text messages, emails and other scams, join our next scams workshop on Wednesday 18th September 

email wellbeing@ccth.org.uk to book your place

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New Storytelling Group – Monday 19th August – 12.30pm to 2pm 

This new activity is to enable carers to do a variety of ways to tell stories.  Often carers tell each other stories of their childhood, caring role, family and exciting things carers can get up to.  This activity allows carers to either tell their story via writing, painting, keeping a diary or just a chat over a cup of tea and plenty of biscuits.

So, why not come and just hang out with other carers and you can either tell your story or listen to others tell theirs, either way you are connecting with others and it is good for your health.

Next Shared Reading  – Monday’s from 11.15am to 12.15pm 

Shared reading is a popular group where carers are read a story and they then have the chance to debate the characters, storylines and how the story makes them feel.  So, come along and have a little mental respite.

Don’t for get Sharron is rambling for better mental health as mentioned last week this years Mental Health Awareness is movement as it has been proven that exercise, walking and as we know being with others improves wellbeing so, either come for the shared reading and carry on afterwards and ramble or just join the ramble at 12.30pm and this all takes place at the Carers Centre and off you go.

Carers Forum –  Wednesday 21st August 11am to 2pm in person or via Zoom – 

 

Topic: carers Forum CCTH
Time: Aug 21, 2024 11:00 Universal Time UTC

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7339417664?omn=89412680123

Meeting ID: 733 941 7664

 

Arts, Crafts & Conversation – every Thursday from 11am to 1pm

Come and learn a new craft like sewing, knitting and much much more but a great part of the experience is meeting other carers where you can have a good long natter

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This Week’s Activities – check out https://ccth.org.uk/health-wellbeing/events-activities/

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Win a free learning course worth up to £200

We are excited to announce that enrolment for the borough’s 900 plus adult and community learning courses – including dancing, singing, painting, drawing, languages and much more – is now open for courses starting in September 2024.

And to launch the new 2024/25 Adult Learning campaign, we are giving three people the chance to win a course of your choice worth up to £200 each.

Enter here >

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Summer of Fun highlights – fun days, sports camps, workshops, boating and more

Our Summer of Fun programme continues to offer opportunities for children and young people to explore their environment, participate in sport, learn something new or engage with arts and culture.

Highlights coming up include free tours of Mudchute Farm on 5 August, a four-week girls football programme at St Paul’s Way Centre, multi-sports camps, and a community information and fun day at Watts Grove on 7 August.

Elsewhere, there’s boating and pedalos at Victoria Park, play sessions, drama, chill out zones, a hate crime workshop and much more.

What’s on >

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Free lifeguard training with Be Well

In partnership with the Royal Lifesaving Society (RLSS), we are running a number of National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) courses at Be Well.

The course cost is £285 per person, however funded spaces are available for free if you become a lifeguard with Be Well afterwards.

If you would like a funded spot, you must complete a swim test beforehand on Saturday 3 August from 12noon to 2pm at Mile End Park Leisure Centre and Stadium. No booking required, just turn up.

Find out more >

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Summer travel plans?

Different diseases are more common in other countries. Whether you’re visiting family or exploring new places, make sure you’re covered. Vaccines are the most effective and affordable way of keeping you and your family safe.

Speak to your doctor if you’re not sure what you need, or have a look at the NHS advice below.

NHS advice >

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Sign up to give blood or plasma

Friday 14 June marked World Blood Donor Day. Every minute, the NHS needs three lifesaving blood donations for anything from emergency surgery to keeping people with sickle cell healthy.

Sickle cell is more common in people of Black heritage, so the NHS particularly needs donors of Black heritage to sign up. There is also currently an appeal asking for O negative and O positive donors to book an appointment.

Can you help?

Save a life >

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Are you a council tenant or leaseholder?

We are seeking your views about our new Council Tenant and Leaseholder Engagement Strategy. This document will provide the blueprint on how we aim to engage and communicate with you in a more transparent and accountable way.

It also seeks to build on the engagement successes of the former Tower Hamlets Homes to drive service improvements and build a stronger relationship with council tenants and leaseholders. Take part by completing a short survey before Friday 16 August.

Take part >

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What is a hate crime?

Hate crime is any criminal offence where anyone believes the victim has been targeted because of their:

• disability
• race or ethnic identity
• religion/belief
• gender or gender identity
• sexual orientation
• age
• immigration status or nationality
• or any other actual or perceived difference.

Hate crime behaviours can include

• physical attacks – pushing and shoving to serious assaults
• verbal abuse – using derogatory or insulting words
• threatening behaviour, bullying and intimidation
• damage to property – including offensive graffiti
• harassment
• malicious communications – threatening or offensive mail, texts or emails
• damage to property and violence
• hate can also be directed at whole communities – for example, vandalism of places of worship, or offensive graffiti in public places.

Hate incidents

Are incidents that do not constitute a criminal offence but cause alarm, distress or harassment where anyone believes the victim has been targeted because of their race/ethnicity, religion/belief, gender/gender identity, disability, age, sexual orientation or any other actual or perceived difference.

For more information and how to report hate crimes visit www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/hatecrime

Our Hate Crime Manual with a Directory of support services is available via this link  Tower Hamlets Hate Crime Manual.

Remember an attack on one section of our community is an attack on us all.

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The importance of a break

We know all too well how challenging a full-time caring role can be, so a few days away with a partner or a friend can work wonders. It may seem like a small thing but our experience shows us that it can make a huge difference. Read a book, go for a walk, or simply catch up on some sleep. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll return home with a whole new outlook on things, refreshed and rejuvenated.

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Good mental health and wellbeing starts with you

Everyday Londoners are doing what they can to support themselves and others with good mental health – whether checking in with a mate at the school gates, inviting a neighbour over for a cup of tea and a chat, or bonding with a customer at the barber shop.

 

But conversations around mental health are difficult. The Mayor of London has launched a campaign in support of Londoners who champion positive mental health – in their families, places of work or their communities.

By signing up Londoners will get access to training opportunities, tools and other offers straight to their inbox to help them navigate these conversations with confidence and compassion.

Mental health and wellbeing support in London | London City Hall

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Domestic Abuse & Violence Numbers

Refuge: 24 hours, 7 days a week – Tel: 0808 2000 247

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Food Banks Information

What you need to know

With the cost of living crisis affecting communities nationwide, the London Borough of Tower Hamlets have shared information on accessing your local FOOD Stores and tips on managing your food bills.

Tower Hamlets FOOD Stores

A number of FOOD stores have been set up across the borough, supporting those who are finding it difficult to afford enough food for themselves or their families.

At these FOOD stores, you are able to pick up food valued at £25-£35 in exchange for a £3.50 membership fee. At the same time, support is provided in other areas that you might need help with. This includes help with issues around

• housing
• benefits access
• employment and more.

To find out more or to become a member email thefoodstore@towerhamlets.gov.uk with your name, address, postcode, date of birth and contact number.

Foodbanks

There are a number of food aid organisations available to help you in Tower Hamlets if you are struggling to get food for yourself or your family. Scroll down to see where your closest branch is located. Different food aid services will offer different support.

Types

• Open Access – A food bank that anyone can go to for food.
• Limited Access/referral only – A Food bank that needs someone to refer you into the service. Please contact the organisation for more details.
• School food provision – A food bank or food aid service that specifically works with students and parents who attend the school.
• Hot meals service/Hostel – Provides hot meals or pre-made goods to residents.

Underwood Road Foodbank – (Open Access)

Opening times: Thursday and Friday, 9am – 3pm

St Anne’s Catholic Church, E1 5AW

Contact: 020 7247 7833 or email underwoodroad@rcdow.org.uk from Tuesday to Friday (9am – 3pm)

Ensign Youth Club – (Open Access)

Opening times: Friday 10am – 1pm

Wellclose Sq, E1 8HY

Contact: info@ensign.org.uk

Hague Primary School

Opening times: Monday – Friday 8.40am – 3.40pm

Hague primary school, E2 0BP and E1 5RE

For more information please ask at the school office.

Stewart Headlam Primary School

Opening times: Monday – Friday 8.40am – 3.40pm

Tapp St, London, E1 5RE

For more information please ask at the school office.

Wellington Primary School – Food bank (limited access/by referral only)

School food provision (Pupils and families only)

Opening times: Tuesday 2 – 3pm

Wellington Way, Bow, E3 4NE

Contact: admin@wellington.towerhamlets.sch.uk

St Elizabeth Pop Up Kitchen – School food provision (pupils and families only)

Opening times: 3.40 – 5pm

St Elizabeth Primary School, entrance on Waterloo Gardens, E2 9JY

For more information please visit St Elizabeth School website / Caritas Twitter page.

Bygrove School – School food provision (pupils and families only)

Opening times: Monday – Friday (Term Time Only)

Bygrove street, E14 6DN

For more information please visit the Bygrove School website.

Langdon Park School – School food provision (pupils and families only)

Opening times: Monday – Friday 8am – 4pm

Bright Street, London, E14 0RZ

For more information please ask at the school office.

Dorset Community Food Hub – (Open Access – Hot meals service)

Opening times: Thursday

Ground floor, former Dorset library, E2 8QX

For more information please visit the Dorset Community website.

Olga Primary School Foodbank – School food provision (pupils and families only)

Opening times: Friday 3.20 – 3.45pm

Olga Primary School, E3 5DN

Contact: 020 8981 7127

Edward Gibbons House – (Hostel)

Opening times: 24 hours

1 Parmiter St, E2 9NG

For more information please visit Providence Row website.

Globe Primary School – (Open Access)

Opening times: Friday 12 – 3.15pm

Globe Primary School, E2 0JH

For more information please visit Globe Primary School website.

Food for Aldgate – (Limited access/by referral only)

Opening times: Friday 1 – 3pm

Tonybee Hall, 28 Commercial Street, London, E1 6AB

Contact: Paul.wilson@eastendhomes.net or Twitter @FoodForAldgate.

Womens Inclusive Team – (Limited access/by referral only)

Opening times: Appointment provided after referral

Mayfield House 202 Cambridge Heath Road, E2 9LJ

Contact: 07415 372 664 or email shakilaa@wit.org.uk.

William Davis Food Bank – School food provision (pupils and families only)

Opening times: Friday 2 – 3pm

William Davis School, E2 6ET

Contact: 020 7739 1511

Bow Food Bank – (Open Access)

Opening times: Monday 8am – 12.30pm

Bromley by Bow Centre, St Leonard’s Street, E3 3BT

For more information please visit the Bow Food Bank website.

Bethnal Green Foodbank – (Open Access)

Opening times: Wednesday 2 – 7pm

Raines Foundations School, Approach road, E2 9LY

For more information please visit Bow Food Bank website.

Bow Muslim Cultural Centre – (Open Access)

Opening times: Friday 11am – 3pm

246 Bow Road London, E3 3AP

Contact: info@bowcentralmosque.co.uk

SACC Food Bank – (Limited access/by referral only)

Opening times: Thursday and Friday 10am – 3pm

St Anne’s Catholic Church, E1 5AW

Contact: braziliancp@rcdow.org.uk or 020 7247 7833.

Referrals can be discussed by email or contact number.

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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,  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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