Ch icesThe Newsletter ofCarers’ Resource

Issue 96 September 2016

CReating a newfuture for carersWe have scooped almost £500k to strengthenand build on our successful CReate service –helping more carers to find and stay in work.

Our Big Lottery Reaching Communities bid toenhance CReate (Carers’ Resource Employment andTraining Enterprises) has been given the go-ahead –allowing us to run for another four years, expandinginto Craven and Harrogate.

Our Director Chris Whiley says: “This is atremendous coup and we can now intensify the initialachievements of CReate and offer a new-look, biggerservice to more carers right across our patch. We knowmany working carers at some point struggle jugglingtheir job with caring responsibilities, and many wouldprefer to stay in work but find it extremely difficult.

“More than 45 per cent of working carers have togive up employment because of the demands oflooking after someone – we’ll help them avoid thatand work with them to look at their rights, find theright support for the person they look after, and tooffload and express their feelings.”

Harrogate 01423 500555 Skipton 01756 700888 Bradford 01274 449660 Ripon 01765 690222

Email info@carersresource.org Web carersresource.org facebook.com/carersresource @CarersResource

CReate clients proud of their achievements at the service’sthird birthday celebration earlier this year.

CReate’s success since 2013:l 346 carers developed knowledge and skills to find work or training opportunitiesl Many said support gave them confidence andraised aspirations to pursue new opportunities;motivated them to seek work or training/learningopportunitiesl 206 carers attended workshops, includinggoal-setting, aspirations, First Aid, and Makatonfor parent carersl A pop-up shop in Bradford city centre wherecarers sold their own crafts/items, and learnthow to build a businessl Strong links with Skipton Building Society,HMRC and University of Bradfordl Met on 1 February with Priti Patel, the thenMinister for Employment, in Westminster.

It will also help carers get back into work throughdeveloping skills and attending confidence-buildingsessions, as well as offering support to set upenterprises or become self-employed.

Chris adds: “Some 20 employers will be brought on board to encourage a greater understanding of‘carers in the workplace’ and create ways of workingwith carers which give them positive choices.

“We have been talking to employers already and we will be piloting new carer-friendly policies inSeptember and launch our Carers’ Charter forEmployers in the New Year.

“It’s an extremely exciting time and we’ll be startingour recruitment drive for new staff in September.”

If you are a carer or employer who wants to be part ofthe CReate service, please contact Alison Straw, Headof Operations at Carers’ Resource, on (01423) 500555.l Read A Day in the Life of a CReate coach, page 10.

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ACCOMMODATIONVACANCY– FLAT/HOUSE SHARE –Knaresborough or HarrogateA disabled young man, who enjoystrains, sport, PlayStation, music,board games, conversation and goodfood is looking for another youngman with similar interests andsupport needs to share accessibleaccommodation. If interested, andhave medium-level support needs,and eligible for Council-fundedsupport, contact Judith on (01765)650319 for details. PLEASE NOTE: we will no longer beable to publish readers’ adverts dueto demands on space for informationand news. Please contact your localCarers’ Resource office if you needhelp finding appropriate support.

Help protect Attendance AllowanceProposed changes to Attendance Allowance could mean less financialsupport for carers and older disabled people in the future.

Attendance Allowance is a benefit for severely disabled people aged 65and over, to help with extra costs of long-term illness or disability.

It is also a vital ‘gateway’ benefit, allowing a person who looks after themto claim Carer’s Allowance. The Government is consulting on whether totransfer responsibility for Attendance Allowance (AA) from the Departmentfor Work and Pensions to individual local authorities in England.

The Government says those currently receiving AA and Carer’sAllowance wouldn’t be affected by any of these changes.

Carers UK has launched a campaign to stop devolution of theallowance. Currently, AA is a national entitlement; demand is matchedby funding.

Under the new proposals, local authorities could have a fixed budgetand local responsibility for funding the demand.

Campaigners fear local authorities could be given freedom to set theirown eligibility criteria, while some may choose not to provide a similarpayment to AA, resulting in a ‘postcode lottery’.

Carers can email their local MP saying why it is important for carersthat it stays as it is. Find your MP at www.writetothem.com and visitwww.carersuk.org/protect for details.

Book to seeus at your GP surgeryWe now offer carers individualappointments at some GPpractices in Harrogate.

Carers registered with DrMoss and Partners’ practice canmake appointments to seeCarers’ Resource staff atJennyfields Health Centre,Tuesdays, at 2pm and 3pm.

Others are on offer at:

Boroughbridge– Wednesday mornings

North House, Ripon– Monday mornings

Dr Ingram & Partners, Ripon– Tuesday afternoons

Masham Surgery– 2nd and 4th Mondays of themonth, afternoons

Leeds Road Practice, Harrogate– Thursday afternoons

These appointments offer aneffective way of supporting carersand are valuable in promoting ourwork and our relationships withGPs.

All appointments MUST bemade through our Harrogateoffice on (01423) 500555.

Make a Will and Help OthersMaking a will is essential if you

want to be certain your wishes will be metafter your death.

A will can ensure loved ones are provided for;it can help to protect your assets for futuregenerations and reduce stress for family at analready difficult time.

Although a will can be written by yourself it isadvisable to use a solicitor to make sure thedocument is valid and accurately reflects yourwishes.

A list of solicitors can be provided by the Law Society (020 73205650) www.lawsociety.org.uk/for-the-public

Some charities offer free will-writing services in the hope you willleave them some money, although there is no obligation to do this.

National Free Wills Month takes place each March and October. It offers over-55s the opportunity to have simple wills written orupdated for free by using participating solicitors. People are given thechance to leave a gift to a selection of well-known charities.

Next campaign begins 3 October, 2016. Register on the websitewww.freewillsmonth.org.uk or contact Carers’ Resource for moreinformation.

Will Aid is a national scheme which operates each November usinglocal solicitors. Instead of paying a solicitor’s fee you are invited tomake a donation to one of nine charities. The suggested voluntarydonation is £95 for a basic will, £150 for a pair of mirror wills.

See www.willaid.co.uk to find a local participating solicitor.You may consider leaving a bequest to Carers’ Resource to help

more carers gain vital support, or by suggesting us as a beneficiaryfor memorial gifts, in lieu of flowers, as some families have chosenin the past. For more information contact Carers’ Resource.

Julie NotedBy Julie Rainer, Carers’ Resource Team Leader – Information

NEW!

Toasting carersCarers have enough on their plate – and we’retaking part in the national Carers Trust Britain’sBest Breakfast fundraising campaign to help givethem a break from the often-demanding role.

At Carers’ Resource we are asking you to inviteyour friends and family to join you for breakfast and raise money forcarers on your doorstep.

We want people to have fun, eat breakfast, and raise a (piece of) toastto carers. Maybe your children or grandchildren attend a breakfast clubwhich could get involved? Could you have a breakfast meeting at work?Or invite friends and neighbours round for a cuppa and toast to start theday together?

As we know, anyone could be a carer and it can happen at any time.They might be a 15-year-old school girl juggling school work and lookingafter a parent with depression, or an 80-year-old woman looking after herhusband who has Alzheimer’s.

Any money you raise will be used for the benefit of Yorkshire carers. l If you’re interested in holding a breakfast bash please contact ourFundraising Co-ordinator Anne Wells who is happy to help, telephone(01423) 500555, email awells@carersresource.org

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Carers’ Resource is an independentand nationally-recognised Yorkshirecharity which gives tailoredinformation and support to carers,those in need of care and support,and the professionals who workwith them. Our services supportpeople to remain independent, andhave choice and control to improvetheir lives or situations.

Carers’ Resource is a companylimited by guarantee.

Reg charity number 1049278.

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONSContributions (300 words max) arewelcomed but may be edited. The views expressed do notnecessarily reflect policy of theCarers’ Resource. Reference to anyservice does not implyrecommendation.

The deadline for submissions for next issue is November 1, 2016and can be sent to the editor,Carolyne Coyle, email:ccoyle@carersresource.org or by post to the Bradford office(address below).

CONTACT USHarrogate11, North Park Road, Harrogate, HG1 5PD.Tel: 01423 500555 Fax: 01423 507777SkiptonGriffin House, Broughton HallBusiness Park, Skipton, BD23 3AN.Tel: 01756 700888 Bradford15, Park View Court, St Paul’s Road,Shipley, BD18 3DZ.Tel: 01274 449660Fax: 01274 449673RiponCommunity House, Sharow View,Allhallowgate, Ripon HG4 1LE.Tel: 01765 690222Emailinfo@carersresource.orgWebwww.carersresource.orgFacebookwww.facebook.com/carersresourceTwitter@CarersResource

Choices is produced by Carers’Resource and designed and printedby Avenue Printing House, 42-44 Wharfedale Avenue, Harrogate, HG2 0AU. Telephone 01423 562924. www.avenueprintinghouse.co.ukEditorial support from A levelstudent Joe Firth, 17, of Bingley.

LOTS OF NEWS– and it’s all good!We’ve lots to share with you in thispacked edition of Choices.

Our biggest news is the BigLottery Reaching Communitiesgrant for our CReate service (seepage 1). It’s a massive achievementand is testament to the quality andpositive results of the already-established programme.

And there are more celebrationsfor young carers who haveconquered the Three PeaksChallenge to mark the service’s 20thanniversary – and to raise funds tohelp even more young carers gainsupport (page 10).

I was privileged and proud toaccompany carers to the House ofLords for a special reception (page 4)and listen to Marlene speak withpassion and confidence about her role.

Carers also share their stories with us to help highlight the benefits ofthe Carer’s Wellbeing Grant (page 5), and we urge you to get yourapplications in as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

We enjoyed a very busy Carers Week, (see some of the photos on page 8),and our first Working Together With Carers conference did just that – bringingeveryone together to focus on carers. A great experience, (see page 9).

Check out our first Julie Noted column on (page 2), by InformationTeam Leader Julie Rainer, which will feature a different topic eachedition, giving a special focus to a timely issue or trend. If you have anyideas about a subject we should cover, do get in touch with CarolyneCoyle, Choices Editor.

Happy reading – and you know where we are if you need us.Chris Whiley, Director, Carers’ Resource

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The guide is part of our ongoingwork with the NationalDevelopment Team for Inclusion(NDTi) exploring the effects ofthe Care Act, with emphasis oncarers’ access to support toboost wellbeing.

The project involved carers anda Shipley GP being interviewedfor a film our staff created, alongwith carers sharing their storieswith NDTi.

Director Chris Whiley andCarolyne Coyle, PR Officer, alsowent to the reception hosted byBaroness Judith Jolly, who wasinstrumental in the developmentof the Care Act, and Co-Chair ofthe Lib Dem Parliamentary Party Committee on Health and Social Care.

Speaking to attendees at theevent, Marlene, 57, of Menston,who looks after her elderlyhouse-bound mum, said:

Care Act one-year-on– ‘more needs to be done’A new report by Carers Trust, the UK’s national charityfor unpaid carers, questions whether the Care Act ishaving a positive impact on improving carers’ lives.

In some instances carers said they were unaware ofthe Act and its implications on them as a carer. l 65 per cent of respondents said they had not had anassessment since the Act was introduced l 31 per cent had had an assessment l four per cent didn’t know if they’d had anassessment or not.

Carers Trust said more action was needed toimprove implementation of the Act, with theDepartment of Health working with local governmentto identify and promote good practice, especiallyaround the identification of carers.

Chris Whiley, Director of Carers’ Resource, says: “What’sclear is that the language used in laws and reports doesn’tnecessarily translate to what carers understand they arereceiving on the ground. If you ask a carer if they want an‘assessment’ they can look at you blankly; they may eventhink we are asking if the person they look after needs anassessment, not them as an individual.

“Society has a role to play in making it happen andthis is reflected in the report’s recommendations.”l The Carers UK State of Caring 2016 report also foundcarers were not getting the support they are entitled to.

Do you know your rights?Carers Rights Day on Friday, 25 November, raisesawareness about carers’ entitlement to help andsupport.

At Carers’ Resource we’ll be running events ateach office to highlight the rights of all carers,including rights to an assessment of their ownneeds – and asking ‘what do you need to help youfunction well as a carer?’

The Care Act 2014 also brought in new rights forfamilies with a child who may need support toprepare for the transition to adult services (usuallyat age 18). It also provides rights for young carerswho are approaching adulthood.

We’ll be promoting events on our website inearly November – or check details with your localCarers’ Resource office.

Marlene ‘nails it’ at House of LordsBradford carers Marlene Thomas and Lynn Ford were among special guests at theHouse of Lords to celebrate a new national guide, Spotlight on a Carer’s Journey.

Carers Lynn (left) and Marlene weregreat ambassadors at House of Lords.

“Once I found Carers’ Resource,and started to meet other carersat groups like Time for Me andthe knitting group.

“We got time to discuss ourfeelings and have a break and thismade me better and stronger inmyself to be a carer.

“I’ve been to sewing groupsand pampering sessions and Ihad my nails done – I hadn’tdone my nails for years. Theseall helped me to develop myconfidence and staff helped meto discover what my own needswere; what to ask for.

“Just knowing that I had thesupport of Carers’ Resource Iwas able to write those letters;fill in those forms and makethose phone calls.”

Chris adds: “We’ve reallyenjoyed being involved with thispiece of work, it’s really made usthink and learn about what we do.”

LATER OPENING TIMES Carers are reminded our Bradford office is openlater on Tuesdays.

Make an appointment for one-to-one support ifyou struggle to get into the office during the day,or drop in for information, before 7.30pm.Reception will take calls and help with enquiries.Call Bradford office for details.

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The Carer’s Wellbeing Grant,formerly known as the Carer’sSmall Grant, encourages carers toapply for up to £200 to give thema much-needed break fromlooking after a loved one.

Co-ordinated by Carers’ Resource,the money is for a personal treat,such as a short break, a hobby,fitness or leisure activity, or aneducational course. It is funded byBradford Council with support fromthe three local NHS ClinicalCommissioning Groups.

Applications open on 1 September,2016, and can be made by a carer,or a professional representing thecarer, and are not means tested.Those eligible should live, and carefor someone, within the Bradford

District, Airedale, Wharfedale orCraven areas.l Applications will be processedupon receipt – priority will begiven to new applicants due tolimited fundingl Carers who received this grantin the last year are unlikely to beconsideredl Application forms may be helduntil the end of the process beforebeing consideredl One application per ‘cared-for’or household will be acceptedl There is limited funding so itmay be necessary to close theapplication process early.

Last year 1,414 carers receivedthe grant, totalling £273,221.78.

More than half were for short

breaks or pamper treatments;requests for fitness or IT/computers were popular.

It is not awarded for: dailyexpenses, rent, utility bills, or aidsfor the person looked after. Fulldetails can be found on the form.

Applications can be made onlineat: http://www.carersresource.org/carers-wellbeing-grant/

Request a copy by phone on: (01274) 965883 or email:cwbgrant@carersresource.org –with your full name, address,postcode, and contact number.Closing date for applications is

16 December, 2016. Applicationsreceived after this date will not beconsidered.

Payments will be made betweenOctober 2016 and April 2017. If youdo not hear from us by the end ofApril 2017, unfortunately, therequest has been unsuccessful.

GRANTING YOUR WISHES

“The therapy sessions arevery beneficial because for ashort period of time you canslip off into your own world.As a carer I need all the help Ican get,“ says Ian Braithwaite,of Keighley, who is using hisCarer’s Wellbeing Grant forrelaxing massage sessions.

The 65-year-old was until recently a full-time carerfor wife, Kathleen, 77, who has Alzheimer’s. She hasnow moved into a care home.

“The hardest part of being a carer is the feeling ofsolitude and sometimes loneliness, which isn’t always abad thing because, when Kath would fall asleep duringthe day I’d try my best to recharge my batteries,” saysIan. “We don’t know what is going on in the mind of adementia sufferer but I’m sure loneliness and fear arethere in big lumps, also the uncertainty of what’saround the next corner. I never thought when I retired Iwould have been working harder than I’d ever workedbefore – it’s very demanding; physically and mentally.”

Kathleen began experiencing memory loss ten yearsago and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s five years later.“The next time I see a young mother looking frayedaround the edges I’ll think again. Cooking, cleaning,washing, ironing, bathing, being a social secretary etccertainly isn’t easy. Just like those young mothers, I’d do everything for my 77-year-old ‘child’,” says Ian.

Ian was a trooper with a tank regiment in the army,based in Catterick then Germany. He worked as asecurity guard before retirement.

Audrey Young, of Wilsden,Bradford, was encouraged to apply for the Carer’sWellbeing Grant by a carercaseworker at Carers’Resource.

“I didn’t think about gettinganything to help me or makemy life better. I was moreconcerned about making sureAunty was sorted and hadeverything she needed,” says Mrs Young, 69, who wasfull-time carer for her AuntyMary Dubil, who died aged 92in June.

A former Meals on Wheels supervisor at BradfordCouncil, Mrs Young used her grant for a Todo multi-crafting machine which combines hot foil, letterpress,die-cutting and embossing – giving her freedom tocreate beautiful cards, gift boxes and presents.

“It’s an amazing machine and I get so much out ofit. I can go upstairs into my craft room, shut myselfoff, and just disappear,” she says.

Mrs Young’s arthritis restricts movement in herfingers but the machine allows her to be creative,without causing too much discomfort, as it does a lotof the intricate work.

“It’s made such a difference to my life. It’s the magicof Carers’ Resource – the peace of mind it brings to acarer knowing there’s somewhere and someone whocan help,” she says.

Carers in Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale and Cravenare invited to bid NOW for a share of a £215,000 potto boost their health and wellbeing.

Ian’s storyAudrey’s story

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AIREDALE AND SKIPTONSUPPER CLUBDates: Approximately every 6 weeksTime: Early eveningWhere: Various venues acrossSkipton and Airedale. Carers, cared-for and former carers –early evening meal out in variousvenues in Airedale and Skipton.Contact volunteer Tracey on 07497 4574687.

BINGLEY DROP-INDates: 1st Wednesday of themonth (7 Sept, 5 Oct, 2 Nov)Time: 10.30am-noonWhere: The Coffee Lounge, QueenStreet, Bingley, BD16 2JSFor carers.

CLAYTON MEN’S GROUP,CLAYTON, BRADFORDDates: Every FridayTime: 1.30pm-3.30pmWhere: Clayton Village Hall, Reva Syke Road, Clayton, Bradford,BD14 6QNDominoes, cards, pool table andmore. £1 for refreshments.Transport can be arranged. Contact Carol on 07846 344071.

HAPPY MEMORIES,UNDERCLIFFE, BRADFORDDates: Every ThursdayTime: 1.30pm-2.45pmWhere: St Andrew’s Church, OtleyRoad, Undercliffe, Bradford, BD2 4QPRelaxed singing group run byAlzheimer’s Society for people withdementia/memory loss and theircarers, led by trained leader.Contact Stephanie Crabtree on(01274) 586008.

BRADFORD EPILEPSYSUPPORT TEAM (BEST),BRADFORDDates: 4th Monday of the month(26 Sept, 24 Oct, 28 Nov) Time: 1pm-3pmWhere: The Ridge Medical Centre,Cousen Road, Bradford, BD7 3JX.For carers and members, to socialiseand enjoy hobbies together.Contact: Stephen Greenwood(01274) 675721 emailsgreenwood52@yahoo.co.uk

ART GROUP, BROUGHTON HALLDates: Tuesdays in 4-week blocks:(27 Sept to 18 Oct, then 1 Nov to 22 Nov)Time: 10am-NoonWhere: Carers’ Resource

Skipton Office, BD23 3ANCarers only. Art work produced ofown choice, no experience needed.All materials/refreshmentssupplied. We do not work in oilsbut most other media catered for.Small, friendly group.Cost: £28 per 4-week block, fullcash payment required on first dayof the block.Contact Anne Brennand (01756) 700888abrennand@carersresource.org

UTOPIA LUNCH GROUP,BROUGHTON HALLDates: 2nd Tuesday of the month(13 Sept, 11 Oct, 8 Nov)Time: 10am-11.30amWhere: Utopia, Broughton HallBusiness Park BD23 3ANCarers, cared-for, former carersand vulnerable adults.

CEDAR COURT COFFEEMORNING, HARROGATEDates: 3rd Wednesday of themonth (21 Sept, 19 Oct, 16 Nov)Time: 11am-NoonWhere: Cedar Court Hotel, Park Parade, Harrogate HG1 5AHCarers and former carers.

DALES DINERS LUNCH,DARLEYDates: 1st Thursday of the month(NB Sept cancelled for decorating,back on 6 Oct, 3 Nov) Times: 1pm-3pmWhere: Christ Church Hall, MainStreet, Darley, Harrogate, HG3 2QFCarers and those they care for whohave memory problems. Socialget-together. £4.50 for two courses.Booking required.Contact Carol Lancaster on (01423) 500555.

ALLSORTS AT WINKIES,HARROGATE (UNDER NEWMANAGEMENT)Dates: Every Monday includingschool holidays, except BankHolidaysTime: 3.45pm-5.15pm Where: Unit 9, Provincial Works,The Avenue, Starbeck, Harrogate,HG1 4QEFree for children with special needsaged 0-11 years. Siblings welcomeat £2. Refreshments, books,information and support for parentsand carers. Contact (01423) 886886.

FRIENDSHIP GROUP,HARROGATEDates: Last Thursday of the month(29 Sept, 27 Oct, 24 Nov)Time: 2pm-4pmWhere: Carers’ Resource HarrogateOffice, HG1 5PDCarers and former carers.

NEW BEGINNINGS,HARROGATEDates: Every WednesdayTime: 10am-noonWhere: Elim Church Hall, Park View, Harrogate, HG1 5LZPeer support group for carers whohave lost a loved one, or cared-fornow lives in a home, as a result ofAlzheimer’s or dementia. To shareexperiences and offer friendship.Costs £3 to cover room hire andrefreshments.Contact Lynda Oliver on 07817 820965.

PINS AND NEEDLES,HARROGATEDates: 1st Tuesday of the month (6 Sept, 4 Oct, 1 Nov)Time: 10.30am-12.30pmWhere: Carers’ Resource HarrogateOffice, HG1 5PDKnitting Group for carers andformer carers.

SUPPAUT, HARROGATEDates: 1st Wednesday of themonth (7 Sept, 5 Oct, 2 Nov)Time: 10.30am-12.30pmWhere: Carers’ Resource HarrogateOffice, HG1 5PDSupport group for parents andcarers of people with autism.

SUPPER CLUB, HARROGATEDates: Every 4-6 weeksTime: Early eveningWhere: Various venues inHarrogate area. Carers, formercarers, and cared-for. An opportunity to socialise with other carers.Cost: Variable – we try to takeadvantage of early bird/special offers.Contact Sheila Constable on (01423) 500555

GET TOGETHER, ILKLEYDates: Thurs 22 Sept, Thurs 27 Oct,Fri 18 NovTime: 2pmWhere: Abbeyfield, 12 RiddingsRoad, Ilkley LS29 9BFCarers, cared for and former carersget-together.

Carers’ Groups and Activities: Airedale, Bradford,

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Craven, Harrogate, Ripon and districtsLET’S SING TOGETHER, ILKLEYDates: 1st Tuesday of the month (6 Sept, 4 Oct, 1 Nov)Time: 2pm-4pmWhere: Clarke Foley Centre,Cunliffe Rd, Ilkley LS29 9DZSinging group for people withmemory problems and their carers.Contact Janet Austin (01943) 430207.

LUNCH GROUP, INGLETONDates: Last Mon/Tues (alternate) ofthe month (Mon 26 Sept, Tues 25 Oct, Mon 28 Nov)Time: NoonWhere: Three Horse Shoes, Main St, Ingleton, LA6 3EHCarers, cared-for and former carers.

COFFEE MORNING, KEIGHLEYDates: 1st Friday of the month (2 Sept, 7 Oct, 4 Nov)Time: 10am-11.30amWhere: Poppy Field Tea Rooms,Cavendish Court, Keighley BD21 3DYCarers, cared-for and former carers.

CHATTERBOX, SILSDEN, NEARKEIGHLEYDates: 1st Thursday of the month(1 Sept, 6 Oct, 3 Nov)Time: 10am-11.30amWhere: Silsden Methodist Church,Kirkgate, Silsden, BD20 0PACarers and cared-for welcome.Contact Grace on 07932 848900 for details.

TIME FOR ME, STEETON, NEAR KEIGHLEY Dates: 2nd Tuesday of the month(13 Sept, 11 Oct, 8 Nov)Time: 10am-NoonWhere: The Hub, Stone Grove,Steeton BD20 6TQFor carers and over 50s. Activities,speakers and company.Cost: £2, including refreshmemts.Contact Carolyne Coyle (01274)449660 ccoyle@carersresource.org

AFTERNOON TEA/COFFEE,KNARESBOROUGHDates: 1st Monday of the month (5 Sept, 3 Oct, 7 Nov)Times: 2pm-4pmWhere: Hewitson Court, StockwellRoad, Knaresborough HG5 0QE.Carers and former carers.

BRUNCH GROUP, PATELEY BRIDGEDates: 1st Friday of the month (2 Sept, 7 Oct, 4 Nov)Times: 1pm-2pmWhere: The Willow, Park Road,

Pateley Bridge HG3 5JSBooking required.Carers and former carers. ContactCarol Lancaster on (01423) 500555.

MASHAM CARERS’ LUNCH,MASHAM, RIPONDates: 3rd Tuesday of the month(20 Sept, 18 Oct, 15 Nov)Time: 12.30pmLocation: King’s Head, Market Place,Masham, Ripon, HG4 4EFInformal lunch for carers to gettogether and enjoy a meal from themenu. Costs approx. £10.Contact: Louise Wilson 01677 470843

CARERS’ DROP-IN, RIPONDates: Every Thursday Time: 10am-1pmWhere: Carers’ Resource RiponOffice, Community House, SharowView, Allhallowgate, Ripon, HG4 1LEStaffed session for carers wishingto see a carer caseworker for adviceor to make an appointment for alater time. Please report toreception in Community House andthey will show you to the office.Contact: Harrogate reception (01423) 500555.

RIPON TEASDates: 2nd Tuesday of the month(13 Sept, 11 Oct, 8 Nov)Time: 2.30pmWhere: Ripon Community House,Sharrow View, Allhallowgate,Ripon HG4 1LECarers support group.Confirmation of attendance requiredone week in advance.Cost: £2Contact Carol Lancaster or JeanEames on (01423) 500555,clancaster@carersresource.org,jeames@carersresource.org

LUNCH GROUP, SETTLEDates: 2nd Monday of the month(12 Sept, 10 Oct, 14 Nov)Time: NoonWhere: The Lion Hotel, Duke St,Settle BD24 9DUCarers, cared-for and former carers.

BOOK GROUP, SHIPLEYDates: 3rd Tuesday of the month(20 Sept, 18 Oct, 15 Nov)Time: 6.30pm-8pmWhere: Carers’ Resource ShipleyOffice, BD18 3DZOpen to all – if you love readingcome and join this friendly group,

not high-brow, take turns to pick abook for the month and discuss itthe following month.Contact Chris Whiley/CarolyneCoyle (01274) 449660 email:cwhiley@carersresource.org

CARERS’ CAFÉ, SHIPLEYDates: 2nd Wednesday of themonth (14 Sept, 12 Oct, 9 Nov)Time: 10.30am-NoonWhere: Interlude Tea Room and Café,27 Westgate, Shipley BD18 3QX

EPILEPSY SUPPORT GROUP,SHIPLEYDates: 2nd Wednesday of themonth (14 Sept, 12 Oct, 9 Nov)Time: 1.30pm-2.30pmWhere: Carers’ Resource ShipleyOffice, BD18 3DZ

KNIT TOGETHER, SHIPLEYDates: Every ThursdayTime: 2pm-4pmWhere: Carers’ Resource ShipleyOffice, BD18 3DZAll welcome.

LUNCH GROUP, SKIPTONDates: 1st Wednesday of themonth (7 Sept, 5 Oct, 2 Nov)Time: NoonWhere: Bay Horse, Snaygill,Skipton BD20 9HBCarers, cared-for and former carers.

SUPER STRIKERS, 10 PINBOWLING, SKIPTONDate: Last Wednesday of themonth (28 Sept, 26 Oct, 30 Nov)Time: 6.30pmWhere: Matrix Superbowl, Skipton,BD23 2AAAll abilities welcome. For disabledadults with/without their companions. Cost: £7.50 for 3 games. Contact 07795 388807

LUNCH GROUP, THRESHFIELDDates: 3rd Friday of the month (16 Sept, 21 Oct, 18 Nov)Time: NoonWhere: Gamekeepers, Long Ashes Park, Threshfield,Skipton BD23 5PNCarers, cared-for and former carers.

AFTERNOON TEA/COFFEE,WETHERBYDates: 3rd Monday of the month(19 Sept, 17 Oct, 21 Nov)Time: 2pm-3pmWhere: Sant’ Angelo Restaurant,High Street, Wetherby LS22 6LTCarers and former carers.

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Out and about for carersWe were out in force during Carers Week flying the flag for carers.

Eric Wright, President of the Harrogate Lions, is picturedhanding over a donation to Carers’ Time Off’s Christine Boxall,

with members of the Lions and volunteers from CTO who helpedrun the Harrogate dance event

A big THANK YOU to Ilkley Freemasons’ BenRhydding Lodge for generously donating £1,074 toCarers’ Resource during Carers Week.

Immediate Past Master of Ben Rhydding Lodge,Peter Coupe, pictured with our Events andFundraising Co-ordinator Anne Wells, said they choseus as their Charity of the Year in recognition of carers’tough roles.

He says: “Many in our community provide orreceive care and support in many ways and IlkleyFreemasons are delighted to be able to help in thissmall way.”l Thanks also to Margaret Brown, this year’s LadiesCaptain at Harrogate Golf Club, for selecting us as herCharity of the Year.l If your group or organisation would like to makeCarers’ Resource your Charity of the Year, pleasecontact Anne Wells at our Harrogate office, emailawells@carersresource.org

At Skipton Library a Carers Week display for young carers wasalso promoting self-help health and wellbeing books

Some 35 events were held across the patch invarious venues to reflect the June week’s “BuildingCarer-Friendly Communities” theme.

A total of 200 ‘goodie bags’ were handed out bystaff at events in Bradford and Airedale.

Highlights included:l Bradford Primary Care Liaison Mel Evans ran nineinformation stands in GP surgeries/medical centresand brought in 53 new referralsl A carers’ drop-in and tea party at the Bradfordoffice attracted 24 visitors and the new Lord Mayor ofBradford, Coun Geoff Reid. One carer said: “It’s justlike a party – we even get a goodie bag!”

l Information stands at Sainsbury’s in Keighley,Skipton and Greengates (Bradford) – and in ASDA,Shipley. One carer read in the Keighley News that wewould be at Sainsbury’s and brought an AttendanceAllowance form to be filled inl Drop-ins at Dyneley House Surgery, Skipton, at ourHarrogate office, and Farfield Group Practice, Keighley,held a carers’ event with us, Keighley MeditationCentre, Manorlands and Dementia Friendly Keighleyl Information stands at Airedale General Hospital(Keighley), Bradford Royal Infirmary and St Luke’sHospital (Bradford)l Some 20 Harrogate carers enjoyed the Carers TimeOff dance and movement afternoon, led by a trainedinstructor (funded by Harrogate Lions, cakes donatedby Betty’s)l And 20 Young Carers in Ripon enjoyed a trip toLightwater Valley, members of the Harrogate YoungCarers group discussed themes connected to CarersWeek at their meeting.

Thanks to everyone who supported us. Here aresome photos from the busy week:

Lord Mayor of Bradford celebrates with carers in Shipley

Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale Page 9

Carers’ honest and movingstories were among thehighlights of our special one-dayconference in Harrogate.Volunteers, staff, trustees, partners and supportersgathered for the Carers’ Resource event WorkingTogether With Carers at Pavilions of Harrogate.

Bradford carer Ayfa Riaz, 40, spoke about supportshe received to help look after her three children, allof whom have a visual impairment, and about herstruggle and success in getting husband Aamir Bashirhome from Pakistan.

She says: “It’s been a great journey with Carers’Resource, you’ve helped me with so much, workingeverything out and helping me with all the differentpathways.”

Carers’ Resource Information Officer Conrad Tayloralso shared his carer journey, and former young carerand performer Christian created a film, from a cruiseship in the Caribbean especially for the conference,about his experience (read his story, page 11).

A range of workshops led by staff or partnersincluded how to inspire volunteers, importance ofbranding, and developing resilience to stress.

Director Chris Whiley says: “It was a great eventand there was a real buzz and a feeling of energy inthe room.

“It was a successful way to bring everyone togetherwith our support for carers as the main focus. It wasgood to see people mingling and talking to oneanother, sharing ideas and enthusiasm.

“Now to organise next year’s!”Attendee and Craven volunteer Maureen Wood

says: “It was a wonderful opportunity to meet a rangeof people who share the same desire to help carers.”

Workingtogether

Carer Ayfa shares her story

Delegates talk all things carers

Conference in full swing

Another volunteer says it was ‘well organised, witha good mix of activities’. She says: “I came awayfeeling very positive about the future of Carers’Resource, and we all know the need is there.”

Our Young Carers’ Service has marked its 20thanniversary by conquering the Three Peaks.

Five young carers, aged 13 to 16, tackled Pen-y-ghent,Whernside and Ingleborough – a distance of 25 miles,and a total climb of 7,000ft.

Accompanied by young carer worker JamesWoodhead-Dixon and staff, they completed the trekwithin 12 hours – 11 hours and 20 mins – earningmembership in the Yorkshire Three Peaks OfficialClub on 27 July, 2016.

James says: “It was an amazing day and anunbelievable amount of determination and resiliencefrom the whole team all the way round.”

The group is raising funds to enable more young

carers to benefit from activities, trips and groupswhich are vital to help them have a break from theircaring role and enjoy their youth.

To support Young Carers’ Service please donate atwww.justgiving.com/fundraising/youngcarersharrogate

Page 10 Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale

We did it!

“My day starts witha quick cup ofcoffee as I checkmy diary. The greatthing about my roleas employmentcoach for carers is

that I meet such interestingpeople. No two days are the same.

My first appointment today iswith Catherine, an accountant whousually enjoys her job, but recentlythings have been tough. Herdaughter, Jess, has severe anxietyand OCD. On bad days Catherinecan’t leave Jess, so takes time offwork. Now her boss has called herin for a meeting and Catherine isterrified she’ll lose her job.

We talk through it and planCatherine’s approach to themeeting. She decides to ask toreduce her hours and we draft aformal flexible working request.

She leaves feeling positive andpromises to update me.

I write notes then catch up onemails. I’m delighted to see thatHamid, a long-term carer, has hisfirst job interview in six years. Hismother has moved into a homeand he’s worried about explainingthe gap on his CV, so we arrangean interview preparation session.

Now Colin is waiting for me inreception. He was in trouble as ayoungster and the convictions onhis record make it difficult for himto find work. He struggles withwriting so I help him write to anemployer, explaining honestly whathappened and how he’s turned hislife around since. I hope it will help.

I write notes, make phone callsand review a couple of CVs beforemeeting Hannah. She hasAsperger’s Syndrome and has justleft college without a plan. We

explore career options and shebecomes keen on the idea of an ITApprenticeship. We talk throughhow to apply and the support shemight need from an employer. Sheleaves with a to-do list and a plan.

It’s the end of my day and thismorning’s cold coffee is still onmy desk. I prepare for tomorrow –a job club and a meeting with acarer considering self-employment. My final task is towrite a list of the things I didn’thave time to finish today.”

Please note: Names of clientshave been changed to protectidentities.

Do you find it useful readingabout the work of Carers’Resource staff? This is a newfeature and we’d love yourfeedback. Please email ChoicesEditor Carolyne Coyleccoyle@carersresource.co.uk

A Day in the Life of… CReate Worker, by Jenny Sengel

Rally Round MeImagine a situation where you can call on a network of friends, familyand volunteers whenever you need an extra bit of help or support withjust the press of a button.

Carers’ Resource can now help you set up your very own Rally Roundnetwork using e-mail and texts. It is free and easy to use and staff arehappy to help get your network up and running.

Chris Whiley, Director, explains: “If you need a lift to the hospital nextTuesday you don’t have to spend time ringing round to see who isavailable you just send out a request on your Rally Round network.”

If you would like further information about Rally Round, contact JulieRainer at our Bradford office on (01274) 449660.

It’s free to carers and clients.

Recital raises fundsStroke survivor Charles Spencer isto perform a left-handed pianorecital in aid of Carers’ Resource.

In Spite of Everything – theHealing Power of Music, the eventincludes a talk by piano tutorGillian Tarn at St Mark’s Church,Leeds Road, Harrogate, onTuesday, 1 November, 2pm to 4pm.

Organised by StrokeAssociation’s Speakability Group,refreshments and homemadecakes included. Suggestedminimum entrance donation of £5.

NEW!

Sophie gets herconfidence back

At 24, Sophie Wilsonhas been a carer for aslong as she canremember.

Her dad has bipolarand as a girl sheassumed he was away‘with work’ when hewent for long-termtreatment in a specialunit.

“As I grew up I justthought this wasnormal and that everyfamily had a ‘patient’at home to look after,”she says. “But as I got

older everything changed.“I was told when I was about eight that he was

really ill. By the time I was about 13 I used tophysically shake as I was walking home – I neverknew what kind of situation I would be walking into.

“Dad’s behaviour was so changeable; there wouldbe extreme highs or extreme lows. It was an unstableatmosphere and we all felt like we had to tiptoearound the house in case he’d flare up at us.

“I’d be scared to bring friends home and scared togo out and leave him, even if mum was there.”

Sophie found support when she was referred toCarers’ Resource in Harrogate while at St Aidan’s C of E school.

“When I first came to the young carers’ team I wasa different person. I wouldn’t speak to anyone. I was amess. But I discovered I had a right to be happy – Ihad a right to my own life. Speaking to other youngcarers made me realise I’m not alone.

“I’ve made some amazing friends through youngcarers. I can’t believe the change in me – now youcan’t keep me quiet.

“Carers’ Resource has taught me to be confidentand has given me my self-esteem back. I’m sograteful.”

Sophie is now an apprentice support worker atHenshaw’s in Harrogate, has her own flat and visitsfamily regularly.

“Being a young carer is a very difficult job. It takesaway your childhood. But it doesn’t have to be like that– everyone at Carers’ Resource has shown me that.”

Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale Page 11

Christian singsour praisesChristian Lunn, now23 and performing ona cruise ship in theCaribbean, recalls thesupport he receivedfrom Carers’ Resourceas a teenager.

“The Young Carers’team becomes yourfamily. They fill thatgap that’s createdwhen a family finds ithard to keep afloat dueto sickness or illness.They didn’t just carefor one piece of thefamily – they werethere for us all.

“They acted as someone I could confide in outsidemy family and friendship group.

“They spoke to school about my home situation.They helped maintain normality in a situation wherea 13-year-old had found himself suddenly caring forhis father who’d been diagnosed with bipolar diseaseand schizophrenia.

“Without them I wouldn’t be where I am today, norhave achieved the things I have. They helped me findnormality when my world had been turned upsidedown. Keeping on top of schoolwork was a big hurdleas I strived to juggle home and school life. I found itvery difficult to explain or communicate with myteachers.

“Once they learned about these issues from theteam, deadlines were extended and school knew thesituation.

“I’m a big believer in everything happening for areason. I learned so much from being a young carer.I now see life for what I have - not what I haven’t.

“From a young age, my passion was to performand the team always encouraged me to pursue mydreams. Now with a first-class honours degree inMusical Theatre from Guildford School of Acting I’mworking as a lead vocalist for the Holland AmericaLine, travelling around the world performing oncruise ships.

“As a thank you for all they have done, I raisemoney so the charity can help another young carerlike me grow in confidence.”

Support sows seeds of successTwo former young carers share their storiesas part of the 20th anniversary celebrationsof our Young Carers’ service

Page 12 Choices: Carers’ Resource – Harrogate | Craven | Bradford | Airedale

On song for carersHarrogate Lions are kindlysponsoring a sing-along concertfor Carers Time Off andCare@Carers’ Resource clients, atSt Paul’s Church Hall, VictoriaAvenue, Harrogate, on Thursday,29 September, 2pm.

Contact Christine Boxall on(01423) 500555 orcboxall@carersresource.org for details.

Balancing act An information event for peoplewith balance disorders, such asTinnitus, will be held to markBalance Awareness Week (12-18September).

Organised by Lianne Taylor, ofYorkshire Spinners Harrogatesupport group, it will includevarious services’ stands, productsand talks at St Peters ChurchCentre, Cambridge Street,Harrogate, on Tuesday, 13September, 10am to 3.30pm.

Contact Lianne on 07895 771125email liannetaylor89@yahoo.com

THANK YOU to:l Individuals and groups whoraised £950, and more to come, byholding tea parties large and smallfor our Time Out For Teafundraising campaign. Thisincluded events held at Barclays inSkipton, Settle and Grassington.l And everyone who has madedonations to Carers’ Resource tohelp ensure our continuingsupport for carers.

Runners can stillsign up for:Yorkshire Marathon, Sunday, 9 October, York: FOUR placesavailable £45 non–refundableregistration fee, pluscommitment to raise minimum£200 sponsorshipLeeds 10k, Sunday, 10 July:

FIVE places available, £20 non–refundable registration fee, nominimum sponsorship

For info contact ourFundraising Coordinator AnneWells on (01423) 500555 emailawells@carersresource.org

New knitteddesigns onChristmas

In response to some concernsabout nut allergies we haverevised our Christmas decorationsto hold Lindt Lindor chocolates.

Our new festive friends(pictured) fit the truffles. Pleaseget in touch with Anne Wells atHarrogate office to request a newknitting pattern, or to let her knowif you can help with knitting,decorating or selling the treats.l AND the theme for Easter chicks2017 will be ‘Colours of theRainbow’ – so the popular chickcovers can be pretty in pink,gorgeous in green, or even astripy or spotty multi-colouredmixture – whatever gets thoseknitting needles a-clicking!

Giant bike challenge to give carers a breakThree generations of one family, aged 10 to 80,embarked on an epic cycling challenge – to helpcarers have ‘a bit of a break’.

The Ilkley family used pedal power to raise funds forfree holidays, including travel and accommodation, forcarers of those with a terminal illness.

On the team’s Justgiving fundraising page they say:“We are one family, one team, and we have onemission: to ride our bikes 250 miles around the Irishcoast from Donegal Town to The Giant's Causeway.

“Angela, Emily, Jack, Chris, Maria, Hannah, Gemma,Sam, Ant, Bob, Ian, Joe, Ben, Lucy, Marg, Dan andMatthew are the riders. Mike, Margaret, Carl and Billare the support crew.

“Our own family has had to deal with incurableillness and we understand the need to create lastingmemories or to just have a much needed break fromthe stresses of ongoing treatment.

“Our inspiration is Angela Sturgeon. She wasdiagnosed with Ovarian Cancer nearly five years ago.

“Since then she has had three cycles ofchemotherapy and has been on several trial drugs.Last year she cycled 250 miles from Bath to Liverpoolwith her friends. Together they raised over £30,000 forTarget Ovarian Cancer. The aim of 'a bit of break' is toenable others in a similar situation to create their ownspecial memories or to simply have some time away.

“We have been very kindly gifted time in self-catering properties in magical parts of the country,

which we will be able to offer to families and carers.“Carers' Resource is a charity that is part of a National

Network. They will manage the fund and create the linkbetween the families and the accommodation.”

Money raised will cover travel to the property, awelcome pack, cleaning of the accommodation and anyother support required to make the stay stress free.

They add: “By supporting our ride you will beproviding essential funds and making a real differenceto those who need it.” To support them visit:www.justgiving.com/fundraising/abitofaride

At the time of going to press the family was due tohave completed their journey – we’ll update you ontheir progress in the next edition of Choices.