Hello Everyone – I have started to get anxious…

August 12th, 2024

I have started to get anxious on Saturday mornings when I am getting ready to visit Mum.  This is a new thing for me as I have always so far, been excited and looked forward to seeing Mum.

As I mentioned last time Mum’s Dementia is progressing and her memory, stress and her emotional wellbeing is severely effected lately.

My partner came with me on Saturday along with the dogs (we always tell them we are visiting Nanny and they get excited) as I needed moral support, I wasn’t feeling too well myself and I was shocked again at how much Mum had  deteriorated since last week and my partner was very shocked as he has not seen her for a month.

I arrived and she said ‘how do you know I was here’, as she is convinced that she has been at the nursing home for a couple of days.  I explained that she had been there for two and half years and she just wept.

I quietly sat with her and answered her questions, giving her the truth and it was good to have Phil there to add some extra support and vouch to what I was saying.

It seems that Mum has gone back 25 years as she is convinced she lives at a place called Eaglesfield which is where we as a family had our horses which was up the road from their home.  I personally think she was very happy then with my sister, Niece and her as this was a female family pursuit that they all really loved.

I tried to explain we sold the land many years ago when my sister had more children and my niece could not longer ride.  This was a shock to my mum.

I feel dreadful getting anxious but I suppose it is the fear of the unexpected but I have now taken a step back and adjusted my approach to my time with Mum.

I use the voice, calmness that I have trained and use when working with people, I am trying to use the skills I have learnt over the years, the way I worked when I worked in various settings such as homes, hospitals and the community.

There is nothing I can do now apart from being calm, talk quietly and be patient – then I leave the home and fall to pieces

It is the way I am understanding the loss of the Mum I knew and managing my grief.

Talking of Understanding Grief and Loss I, will be delivering a new workshop I have developed on Wednesday 14th August 11am to 1pm (This Wednesday) and there are some places left.

If you would like to attend please email wellbeing@ccth.org.uk for a place

But to finish off everyone has to find there approach on how they deal with anxiety, the loss of a loved one and how they manage their own wellbeing.  Of, course we at the Carers Centre are here to support you and if you need us just get in contact and remember you do not have to do this alone.

On a positive note it is Mums birthday this weekend and oh it is also mine HURRAH so I am making Mum a cake (still not sure what to buy her for a pressie) any suggestions would be appreciated and we are off to make sure she has a good one.

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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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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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New website with free activities for youth

Young Tower Hamlets is hosting a variety of free activities across the summer for young people aged 11 to 19 or up to 25 with SEND.

Activities include fun days, trips out to Thorpe Park, escape rooms, picnics, arts and crafts, water fights and more.

All of this and more can be found on our new dedicated website.

New website >

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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.

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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Four days of free activities at In the Neighbourhood

The All Points East In the Neighbourhood festival returns to Victoria Park, in partnership with the council, from 19 to 22 August with a programme of free activities and entertainment for all ages.

Expect free cinema screenings, live music and entertainment, street food, theatre, dance, sports, panel talks and wellbeing workshops, family activities and more.

Head down to Vicky Park on Monday 19 August for all things sport, including yoga, gym sessions and dance workouts. Tuesday 20 August is literature day and Wednesday 21 August has lots of fun activities.

On Thursday 22 August, the BBC Asian Network will be taking over the BBC stage, with DJs, live PA performances and more.

Full timetable >

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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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