Hello Everyone – Life’s Ups and Down’s..
January 10th, 2025
Happy New Year to you all and I hope this years brings you peace and time to yourselves..
As Carers we hope our lives remain at a constant but in reality it is just not the case. As you might remember I talked about Joy in my last blog before Christmas.
I did have a partial restful break and the up’s were having a wonderful family get together in my Mum’s room at the nursing home and four generations of my family congregated to wish my Mum the best possible Christmas with food and presents. My Partner made my Mum some biscuits and mince pies but smaller and easier to eat and we gave her a range of presents that suits at this stage in her life.
My Sister and Nephews then came to stay with us for Christmas and I surprised myself with how lovely it was and I would do it again, I really enjoyed seeing the boys open their pressies and the excitement they had. Yes, I do mean my Nephews but I also mean my two dogs LOL, my dogs had so many presents and they ripped open their pressies like any enthusiastic child.
However, just when we thought we were on a high and things were going smoothly my Mum has declined further and has started to haemorrhage, become more locked in and delirious, she has stopped eating and she needs help to use her Sippy cup and things are not looking so good. So, this is a down and a difficult one.
I believe this is going to be an Up and Down year but I am going to live my life one day at a time because anticipating the inevitable is not going to help me with the here and now and I do have some wonderful positives in my life such as my little family, my job which I love very much, my friends and the carers I come into contact with every day, where I live which is my solace.
I want to remind you that we have some wonderful support activities for carers such as counselling if life is overwhelming, our bereavement group which carers find very useful and it is not just for carers who have lost someone physically, our quarterly Life After Caring workshop which gives you the skills to put into place what you need if your caring role is coming to an end as well as the amazing social and peer support groups which allow you some me time.
Look after yourselves and if you need any help with your wellbeing activities please get in touch with the wonderful Christine wellbeing@ccth.org.uk
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/
Carer Photography Celebration
Yesterday we celebrated at the new Reed Smith offices in Spitalfields the results of a photography course carers undertook last summer in 2024.
We have a wonderful long term partnership with CREATE and arts organisations that sources funding from companies like Reed Smith to pay for courses and the Carers Centre Tower Hamlets is a partner and they love working with the carers from Tower Hamlets.
They wanted carers to learn photography skills and produce pictures for their new offices. We had a tour, we had lovely food as well a celebration where carers got certificates and a framed chosen photo of their work.
Congratulations everyone who took part ..
On Thursday 27th February we start our new artistic endeavour with CREATE and Reed Smith – Natural Dying – carers will be able to learn how to use flowers, vegetables and other sources to dye fabric and develop pieces of art so, if this is something you like the sound of then please email wellbeing@ccth.org.uk to book your place as this is limited
Carers Hospital Coordinator – Homerton Hospital
As a Carers Hospital Support Co-Ordinator, you will play a pivotal role in identifying and supporting carers who’s relative, friend or neighbour is in hospital or receiving treatment at the Homerton Hospital. You will be responsible for coordinating vital services, offering guidance, and creating a supportive environment to help carers cope with the challenges they may face whilst their cared-for is in hospital.
To find out more and how to apply please click the link below:
Get Savvy about Scams – Wednesday15th January 11am to 1pm
This in person workshop is for carers who wish to learn about how scams work, how to avoid them.
We have a few places left so email wellbeing@ccth.org.uk to book your place
The consumer workshop covers:
- the pros and cons of going online
- How to spot the different elements that can go into a consumer scam- especially finding out how scammers play on our emotions to get us interested
- How to get out of scam if you are targeted
- What to do with cookies when you go online
- There’s also a quiz at the end of the session, using a case study based on a common scam, to have fun and try out the new ideas people have learned.
Tony says I did it so, why don’t you – read his account below?
If you are interested please email wellbeing@ccth.org.uk and we will pass on your name, email and contact number and they will contact you to book in your appointment
Wellbeing for Over 60’s
Feeling alone, undervalued, or low in self-confidence? This course will help you rediscover your value and enjoy this phase in your life.
For people over 60 who want to:
- Meet interesting people
- Boost their self-esteem
- Develop new skills
- Feel valued and listened to
- Focus on the positives in life
Day & Time: Every Wednesdays from 10am-12.30pm
Dates: 15th Jan – 19th Feb 2025
Venue: Toynbee Hall, 28 Commercial Street, London E1 6LS
R e f r e s h m e n t s a n d f r e e h o t l u n c h w i l l b e p r o v i d e d
To sign up, or for more information, contact Ahmed: 07740 54 6966 or email ahmed@globecommunityproject.org
Help shape our new membership scheme
The new London Museum will open in 2026 breathing new life into two historic buildings in the City of London. It will open early and close late, reflecting London’s reputation as a 24-hour global city.
This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reconceive what a museum for London can be – and we want your help!
Through a series of online focus groups we are asking Londoners and those who love London what would make a really great membership scheme and how they would use it to make the London Museum truly theirs.
The 90 minute focus groups will be run between Monday 20 and Wednesday 22 January by Baker Richards Ltd on behalf of London Museum. As a thank you for your time, participants will receive a £50 One4All Voucher that can be used at a range of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.
If you would like to share your opinions, please fill out this initial survey, which includes a place to share your contact details and availability. The survey is open until 23:59 on Sunday 12 January. Not everyone who applies will be selected, and we will only contact you if you are selected.
London Museum focus group recruitment
Next Week’s Activities – check out https://ccth.org.uk/health-wellbeing/events-activities/
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
Care 2 : Guided Relaxation to support Mental Wellbeing
email wellbeing@ccth.org.uk to book your place and learn bow to look after you liver or your loved ones
Swim well with Be Well
Be Well, the council’s leisure service, provides free swimming for women and girls aged over 16, and for all residents over 55. However, we recognise that not everyone is confident in the water, especially women.
That’s why we’re offering free swim clinics for women during female-only swim sessions. These are not structured swimming lessons.
See more >
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.
Domestic Abuse Number
Refuge: 24 hours, 7 days a week – Tel: 0808 2000 247
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.
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, 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.
