Hello Everyone – Caring is exhausting …

September 6th, 2024

I wanted to talk about how tired I am currently and how constant anxiety about Mum’s decline is a contributing factor.

Like many of you I juggle my working life, caring role and try and fit in some me time. The issue I have right now is that my me time has become virtually none what so ever.

My worry is about what I am walking into when visiting each week as the change each time is startling.

Mum used to be rightfully on point with her dress, makeup, hair and all round presentation but, now she is just not aware of this, she used be OCD about her room and everything had a place but she is oblivious now.

I know professionally how Dementia works as I have seen it many, many times but it does not prepare you for a loved one slipping away.

I am sorry if the last couple of weeks have been a bit down with my blogs but I suppose I am chronicling my carer experience as it happens and like a ,lot of other carers it is not always pleasant, if fact it is bloody horrible at times.

So, don’t forget we offer counselling, peer support groups (I will be talking more about this soon) and I really  encourage carers to come and join these groups before we cancel any of them due to low or no attendance but I really value connection with peers in a group.

I want you all to have a great weekend and wish me luck that when I visit my lovely Mum tomorrow she recognises me, she’s content and she is not stressed or anxious.

Don’t be shy and come and drop in to one of our activities – check out the calendar to see what is on    https://ccth.org.uk/health-wellbeing/events-activities/

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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 and Online safety?

Social media scams

 

You’re scrolling through Facebook messaging your friends and family.  It’s a really hot day and you  see an advert for an electric fan. Just what you need! But did you know, scammers pay for adverts on Facebook to sell their bogus products? Check out your scam spotting skills with this quiz from Which? and come along to our Savvy About Scams  workshop on 18^th September to find out more.

 

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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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.

Walking & Talking Group – Monday’s 12.30pm to 2pm

Why not come and have a walk in Tower Hamlets with other carers and exercise, lower your blood pressure, connect with people, have fun, and have some mental respite from your caring role. We Meet outside the centre, and we go off in a different direction each session.

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

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Registration of deaths changing

From 9 September 2024, the way deaths are registered is changing.

From this date, all deaths must have extra scrutiny from the Medical Examiner’s Office (MEO). Registrars cannot register a death until the medical cause of death certificate (MCCD) has been signed by the MEO. Families will need to liaise with the MEO directly and not registrars.

The MEO is also changing its opening hours to include an out of hours service from 8am to 11am Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays. Therefore, from 9 September 2024, the council’s out-of-hours emergency burial certificate service will run from 9.30 am to 12.30pm Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Find out more >

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Bow East By-election – one week to go

The Bow East By-election will take place next Thursday 12 September with 8 polling stations open from 7am-10pm. The results will be announced on the council’s website and social media channels following the count, which will take place at the Town Hall after the close of poll.

The by-election follows the resignation of Cllr Rachel Blake, who was elected as MP for the Cities of London and Westminster at the recent General Election.

This is the first election for a council seat since the 2022 Local Elections and the first time that recent changes in the law require voters to provide an accepted form of photo ID when they vote in person at a polling station.

You can find out more about the photo ID requirements, see a list of the candidates standing, the locations of the polling stations and further information from the link below.

More info >

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School applications now open

Applications to secondary, primary and nursery schools for 2025 opened on 1 September 2024.

The application deadlines are:

• Secondary admissions: 31 October 2024
• Primary admissions: 15 January 2025
• Nursery admissions: 16 February 2025

Information about how to apply can be found in the link below.

Apply here >

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Vaccinations at secondary school

Most vaccines are given before a child starts primary school, but there are some vaccines that are offered at secondary school.

These vaccinations are given by a team of trained, highly experienced vaccinators who will visit your child’s school. All you need to do is provide your consent for your child to have their vaccinations.

It’s natural to have questions about vaccinations. Find out more information about the vaccines your child can get at every stage of their life using the link below.

See more >

 

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Come along to our free clothes and book swap this Saturday

Help tackle clothes waste and pick up some fabulous pre-loved pieces or your new favourite read at this sustainable event on Saturday 7 September 7. Join us, Sunny Jar Eco Hub, and Friends of the Earth Hackney and Tower Hamlets for a clothes and book swap.

There will also be mending workshops, drop-in bike repairs, and upcycling workshops.

The event will be held at Haileybury Youth Centre, Ben Jonson Rd, London, E1 3FQ from 10.30am to 2pm.

Join in >

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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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