Online support offered to carers across Wolverhampton
A carer support team is hosting a series of virtual events next week for people who care for a vulnerable relative or friend.
Members of the group from Wolverhampton Council have urged people to ask for help if needed ahead of Carers' Week.
The team usually hosts a number of events – but has been forced to go online due to coronavirus restrictions.
Councillor Linda Leach, cabinet member for adult services, said: "There are an estimated 27,000 carers in Wolverhampton, providing unpaid care and support to a family member or friend who has a disability, illness, mental health problem or who needs extra help as they grow older.
"Each and every one of them is doing an incredible job during the coronavirus pandemic, and our carer support team want to give them as much help as they can at this time.
"Clearly, we can't hold some of our usual events this Carers' Week, so instead the team is going online to host a range of activities which we hope will be both informative and enjoyable."
Covid-19 coverage:
Two virtual meetings of the popular Carers Wellbeing Cafes will take place on Microsoft Teams on Monday, from 2.30pm to 3.30pm, and on Wednesday, from 10.30am to 11.30am.
A session explaining benefits available for carers will take place from 2.30pm to 3.30pm on Tuesday, with places limited.
A Zoom Laughter Yoga session will take place on Thursday with carers invited to set aside a bit of time to look after themselves.
A singalong – featuring the Wolverhampton Music Service – will be available on YouTube all day, with Spurgeons offering a range of information for young carers on Wednesday.
The information and support session takes place between 10am to noon, with people asked to call 07814 143804.
Councillor Leach added: "We as a council will continue to do all we can to support our carers during this challenging time. If anyone needs help – or just a friendly voice to chat to – please do not hesitate to give the carer support team a call."
To tae part in the virtual meetings email carer.support@wolverhampton.gov.uk – with people wanting to take part in yoga asked to visit Eventbrite and search 'Laughter Yoga session for Carers'.
