Young Adult Carers Visit to the Royal Welsh Show: A Day of Discovery and Fun

Posted on August 13, 2024October 1, 2024 by Michael Ford

Young Adult Carers Visit to the Royal Welsh Show: A Day of Discovery and Fun

On July 24th, seven Young Adult Carers (YACs) aged 16-22 had the opportunity to visit the Royal Welsh Show Ground in Builth Wells. This event, known for its grand displays of agriculture, livestock, and rural life, offered our young carers a much-needed break from their demanding responsibilities. Accompanied by three staff members, the YACs embarked on what turned out to be a memorable and enriching experience.

The day began early, with the first pick-up at 7:25 a.m., requiring our staff to leave home even earlier. For some, this early start was challenging, but the anticipation of the day ahead kept spirits high. The journey was long, and the last of the group didn’t return home until after 7 p.m., making it a full day out for everyone involved.

Despite the early start and long day, the weather was kind to us. The day was mostly dry and warm, creating the perfect conditions to explore the vast array of outdoor attractions at the show. Upon arrival, the sheer scale of the event left many of the YACs in awe. The Royal Welsh Show is renowned for its expansive grounds filled with activities and exhibits, and it didn’t disappoint.

Throughout the day, the YACs experienced a variety of displays, including tractor shows, dog obedience demonstrations, and an array of livestock exhibitions. They marveled at the sight of cows with their calves, sheep with their lambs, and the impressive prize bulls. The show ponies and horses also captivated the group, as did the abundance of other rural attractions that highlighted the rich agricultural heritage of Wales.

A professional cameraman accompanied our group to capture these moments, helping us document the experiences of young carers. This footage will be valuable in raising awareness about the challenges these young people face and the importance of providing them with opportunities to enjoy life beyond their caring roles.

After overcoming the initial overwhelm of the event’s scale, the YACs quickly relaxed and made the most of their day. The event provided not just entertainment but also a sense of escape and enjoyment, which is so vital for young carers who often carry heavy responsibilities at home.

In all, the trip to the Royal Welsh Show was a resounding success. It was a day filled with laughter, learning, and relaxation—a perfect reminder of the joy that can be found in taking a break and experiencing something new.

A huge thank you to the Royal Welsh for the generosity in providing the tickets.

ITV – Wales this Week: Too Young to Care?

Posted on July 26, 2024July 26, 2024 by Michael Ford

ITV – Wales this Week: Too Young to Care?

We are proud to announce that a young carer from Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales featured in ITV’s weekly Wales this Week show called “Too Young to Care?”. The show sheds light on the reality that more than 11,000 children in Wales care for a family member. The latest episode highlights the immense responsibilities these young carers shoulder and the urgent need for more support to ease their burden and safeguard their wellbeing.
At Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales, through our Young Carers Service we support children and young people with 1:1 support, opportunities to meet other young carers, and attend trips and activities that might otherwise be unavailable to them. Since 2015 we have supported almost 1000 children and young people in Carmarthenshire. We believe that children and young people need time away from their caring role to be children, decompress, and thrive.
Funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, our service is crucial for these young carers. However, this funding expires next year. The show underscores the importance of continued support and investment to ensure these young carers can continue receiving the help they need.
Tune in to ITV to watch these inspiring young individuals share their stories and advocate for much-needed change.

Young Carers Club Creates Slime and Friendships at Bwlch

Posted on July 4, 2024July 4, 2024 by Michael Ford

Young Carers Club Creates Slime and Friendships at Bwlch

At the Carmarthenshire Crossroads Young Carers Service, we are always delighted to share the wonderful activities and events our young carers participate in. Recently, a small group of our young carers attended the Young Carers Club at Bwlch, and the evening was filled with creativity and laughter.

Joined by the Reaching Wider Team, our young carers engaged in a fun and interactive slime-making activity. These activities are always a hit, providing a much-needed break and a chance for the young carers to relax and enjoy themselves. It was heart-warming to see everyone having so much fun, staff included.

More importantly, these sessions are a valuable opportunity for young carers from around Carmarthenshire to form strong friendships and support networks. These bonds are essential for their well-being, offering emotional support and a sense of community among peers who understand their unique challenges.

After the club, we received a lovely message from a parent that truly warmed our hearts:
“[young person] loved club tonight. Thank you.”

We are incredibly proud of our young carers and grateful for the support from the Reaching Wider Team and the broader community. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of these remarkable young people.

The Carmarthenshire Crossroads Young Carers Service is dedicated to providing young carers with the support they need. Young carers often take on significant responsibilities at home, which can be overwhelming. Our service offers them a safe space to unwind, connect with others, and enjoy their childhood.

Proudly supported by The National Lottery Community Fund

funded by BBC Children in Need

FREE Carmarthen Mental health service – Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen MIND

Posted on July 1, 2024 by Michael Ford

Active Monitoring support helps clients understand and feel more in control of their emotions.

Through our six-week, guided self-help programme, we provide clients with the tips and tools to understand themselves better.

We provide workbooks and activities by email or through the post and keep in touch weekly to listen, talk things through and cheer them on!

It can help with:

Anxiety
Depression
Self-esteem
Stress
Feeling alone
Managing anger
Grief and loss
Menopause

Delivered face-to-face, digitally, over the telephone or online. The course can be accessed by self-referral or referral by a health practitioner.

Active Monitoring Support can be accessed within the week, so there’s never been a better time to refer.

We have a team of already-established, enthusiastic and experienced trained Practitioners who will listen and provide tailored guidance!

This service has a robust evidence base for its effectiveness and we have seen over 4,000 people since 2020! We’ll be there every step of the way, to support, encourage and find positive solutions to challenges faced.

We currently have free spaces to start right away!

Take care from the team at Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind

www.pcmind.org.uk

01437 769 982

01267 222 990

NewsFlash – Summer 2024 – Issue 5

Posted on June 27, 2024July 2, 2024 by Michael Ford

Summer 2024 – Carers Newsflash – Issue 5

Dear Valued Carers,

As the warm days of summer unfold, we are delighted to welcome you to our latest edition of the Carmarthenshire Carers Newsflash, specifically for our dedicated community of unpaid carers. This season is not just about sunshine and relaxation, but also about recognising and celebrating the incredible efforts and selfless dedication you bring into the lives of those you care for every day.

In this edition, you’ll find:

Carers UK Carers Week 2024 report – ‘No Choice but to Care’
Carer Survey – tell us what’s important to you and help shape the West Wales Carers Strategy 2025-2030.
Community Events, Resources & Support: Information on some virtual and in-person events and information on support services and resources available to you.

We understand that caring can be a demanding journey, often filled with both rewarding and challenging moments. Our goal with this newsletter is to provide you with valuable information, and useful resources to help you navigate your caring journey.

Thank you for all that you do. Your dedication makes a profound difference in the lives of those you care for, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Wishing you a restful and joyful summer,

Best wishes from all at

Carer Trust Crossroads West Wales

Putting Carers on the Map – Carers Week 2024

Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face, and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. It also helps people who don’t think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support. Carers Week is led by Carers UK with the support of a number of other charities. This year we celebrated Carers Week 10th – 16th June and helped to ‘Put Carers on the Map’ in Carmarthenshire with an informative and […]

Carers Strategy Survey 2024

The West Wales Regional Partnership Board (WWRPB) has launched a new survey to gather your views on support for carers in West Wales. The survey is aimed for those who provide care for a person, have previously provided care, or an organisation which supports carers. Your views on the services in West Wales will inform the Carers Strategy 2025 – 2030, which guides and prioritises the work that is required across West Wales. The survey is completely anonymous. Share your views and take the survey by clicking here.

No choice but to care – Carers Week Report 2024

Carers UK carry out an annual survey into caring and this year their No choice but to care report was published on the first day of Carers Week 2024.

The report found that 62% of those who are currently providing or those who have previously provided unpaid care said that they had no choice in taking on the role because no other care options were available – this is around 10 million adults.

While caring can be rewarding, the impact of providing unpaid care has been more negative than positive for all areas current and former […]

A fond farewell and a new appointment

It is with a heavy heart that, after ten years of dedicated service, we say goodbye to our Service Development Manager, Joanne Silverthorne, who has been an integral part of our team at Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales and her departure marks the end of a remarkable chapter for our organisation.

Jo’s journey with us began after her pivotal role in establishing the Carers Information Service in Carmarthenshire during her seven years at CAVS.

When she transitioned to Crossroads, it was truly our gain. Her personal experience as a Parent Carer fuelled her passion and commitment, infusing […]

FREE Carmarthen Mental health service – Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen MIND

Through our six-week, guided self-help programme, we provide clients with the tips and tools to understand themselves better. We provide workbooks and activities by email or through the post and keep in touch weekly to listen, talk things through and cheer them on!

Delivered face-to-face, digitally, over the telephone or online. The course can be accessed by self-referral or referral by a health practitioner. Active Monitoring Support can be accessed within the week, so there’s […]

ACTIF Sports and Leisure – FREE 3 months

As an unpaid carer you could be eligible for a FREE 3 month membership.

This would entitle you to use all of Actif Sport and Leisure facilities.

Don’t miss our – limited membership available! The membership includes individual use of: Gym Fitness classes Swimming (during public or lane sessions) Health suite Health checks Exercise programmes

Carers Wales – Me Time

Me Time – Online support sessions for Carers – June to July

Dementia support in and around Ammanford

Are you looking for other people with dementia to talk to? There is a regular get-together for people, in and around Ammanford, who have a diagnosis of dementia, to: discuss our concerns together. share, learn from and support each other. just talk, be together and have fun! with tea, coffee, and biscuits.

Where: The Meeting Room Glanavon Retirement Housing, Park Street, Bettws, Ammanford, SA18 2EX.
When: Drop in Tuesday between 1pm and 3pm

Please email for further information, directions or to have a chat about what we can do together: Email: dwfn@peter-clark.com
We particularly need help from Cymro Cymreig and […]

Dementia support with Admiral Nurses

Hywel Dda University Health Board, in partnership with Dementia UK, provide a specialist service for carers of people living with dementia who are experiencing difficulties as a result of their caring role. The team focus on delivering person–centred and relationship-centred dementia care.

The West Wales Admiral Nurse Service provides practical advice and emotional and psychological support from diagnosis to post-bereavement, helping people to learn coping strategies and come to terms with the diagnosis. The service can help carers to navigate health and social care systems; provide education on […]

Working together to support Carers – Co production in action in Carmarthenshire County Council by Emma Taylor-Hill

A ‘Working Together to Support Carers conference’ was held recently in Carmarthenshire. The Head of Adult Social Care said Supporting Carers is a priority in Carmarthenshire and the local authority wants to ensure a co production approach is used to inform this work. The audience was made up from practitioners and carers. This included representatives from statutory and third sector services. The agenda included a series of presentations in the morning including: Welcome and introduction to the day by Avril Bracey (Head of […]

Investors in Carers – Gold Award revalidated

Our CEO Alison Harries is very proud to receive a re-validated Investors in Carers Gold Award from Anna Bird – Assistant Director -Strategic Partnerships, Diversity & Inclusion at Hywel Dda Health Board “Supporting unpaid carers of all ages is the heart of who we are what we do” “Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales are delighted to have achieved our gold level revalidation, supporting unpaid carers of all ages is the heart of who we are and what we do therefore it is great that this has been recognised with this accreditation. Credit goes […]

Catalysts for Care – Drop in & find out more

Meet and chat to lots of service providers

Friday 12th July 2024 2:30 – 4:30pm

Ffrwnes Fach, Park Street, Llanelli, SA15 3YE

Free taster sessions including: Tai Chi & relaxation sessions, VR digital experience…

Carers Wales – Roadshow in Carmarthen

When: Wednesday 17th July 2024, 11am -3pm
Where: The Taf Suite, Halliwell Conference Centre, University of Wales Trinity St Davids, Carmarthen

Join us at our in-person Roadshow in Carmarthen, where you can meet local carers and hear more about Carers Wales, our campaigns and support. There’ll be lots of opportunities to chat to Carers Wales staff, ask questions and get information and support.

Llais Cymru – June 2024 update

Llais is the national, independent body set up by the Welsh Government to give the people of Wales a stronger voice in their health and social care services. You can find out more about us by visiting www.llaiswales.org This is what we have been up over the past few months: Asking your opinion – We have been asking the public how waiting for treatment has affects their lives daily.

What we have done – We have completed projects on A + E and Living Happier and Healthier within the community and those reports will […]

Care and Repair – Managing Better

Care and Repair offer a Managing Better service

Managing Better is a free home visiting service offering advice and practical help for people over the age of 50 who have hearing loss, sight loss, dementia, or have had a stroke.

How we can help you: […]

Carers Support West Wales

During Carers Week 2024, the Carers Support West Wales team shared their latest promotional bilingual videos promoting the services available on their regional website, Carers Support West Wales (CSWW). The CSWW website supports the provision and accessibility of consistent carer specific information, assistance and advice for unpaid carers in the three counties.

CSWW is divided into three distinct sections, allowing carers to easily navigate the platform and explore information locally and regionally. On the ‘My Community’ section, carers will find local offers, promotions and discounts that can support them in their caring role in their community. […]

Carer’s Groups, Information Drop-In & Peer Support – Adferiad

Do you care for a family member, friend, or neighbour?

Would you like to meet up with people in a similar situation? Join our friendly group for a cuppa and a chat where you can access information & advice from our staff on how we can support you as a carer.

How can Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales support unpaid carers?

Carers Newsflash – quarterly e-bulletin updates
Crossroads Care – Replacement Care and Regulated Care – providing carers with a break from their caring role.
Young Carers Support Service – one-to-one support, workshops, training, group peer support, clubs, and activities for carers age 5 – 25 years.
CATCHUP Welfare Benefits Advice Service – benefit advice, checks, form filling and Appeal Tribunal Representation.
Hospital Discharge Support Service – help with communication with medical staff when the person you care for is in hospital and support to help carers understand their rights and to be involved in discharge planning.
Community Discharge Support Service – help with communication with staff when the person you care for is in a community hospital or temporary care facility and follow-up post discharge support for carers and family members to ensure a smooth transition from hospital to home.
Money Matters Service – help to maximise income, improve budgeting skills, access to workshops, access to carer grants, discounts, and concessions.
Independent Professional Advocacy as part of the 3CIPA Service – advising carers of their rights, support during assessments and/or care planning reviews, complaints, and safeguarding concerns.
Time Together Project – offering a range of short break options for carers along with wellbeing activities for carers and the person they care for.
FREE Legal Advice Surgeries – in partnership with NewLaw Solicitors who offer free confidential advice on issues such as Lasting Power of Attorney, Court of Protection & Deputyship, Will & Trust Funds, Protection of Assets, etc.

Mental Health & Emotional Wellbeing Helplines

Mental Health Helpline for Wales	24-hour helpline 0800 132 737 Or text help to 81066
Age Cymru Mental Health Support	08000 223444
Carmarthenshire Community Mental Health Team	01267 236017
Mind Info Line	0300 123 3393
Samaritans	116 123
Iawn	www.iawn.wales.nhs.uk

Useful Contacts

Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales	0300 0200 002 www.ctcww.org.uk
West Wales Action for Mental Health	01267 245572
Stroke Association	07799 436050
Age Cymru Dyfed	03333 447 874
Alzheimers Society	0333 150 3456
Care & Repair	01554 744300
Mencap	community.partners@mencap.org.uk
Adferiad Carers Information Service	0333 121 1332
Delta Wellbeing	0300 3332222
Macmillan Cancer Information Service	01267 227904
Dewis	https://www.dewis.wales/
West Wales Carers Support	https://carerssupportwestwales.org/
Citizens Advice Bureau	01267 234488 / 01269 569267 / 01554 759 626
Advocacy West Wales	01267 223197
Carmarthen Mind	01267 222990
Llanelli Mind	01554 752751
Links	01554 757957
Versus Arthritis	0800 7563970
Carers UK Helpline	0808 808 7777
Connecting Carmarthenshire	0800 917 6255

A fond farewell and a new appointment

Posted on June 26, 2024July 1, 2024 by Michael Ford

A fond farewell

Jo’s journey with us began after her pivotal role in establishing the Carers Information Service in Carmarthenshire during her seven years at CAVS. When she transitioned to Crossroads, it was truly our gain.

During her tenure, Jo was instrumental in developing vital services for children with disabilities. She spearheaded initiatives such as Saturday Clubs, Summer Clubs, and the Moments Clubs, ensuring that children who could not engage in mainstream activities had their own inclusive spaces. Her efforts have been transformative, providing joy, support, and a sense of belonging to countless children and their families.

Jo also took the lead in developing of our Carer Support Services, enhancing the support offered to carers in West Wales, ensuring that carers and the people they care for are at the heart of everything we do.

After 10 years with Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales and a secondment to Carers Trust Wales, Jo’s departure is a significant loss for us, but we take comfort in knowing that her impact will continue in her new role with the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales as Head of Advice and Assistance. While she will be greatly missed, Jo will always remain a dear friend to Carers in Carmarthenshire.

We wish Jo all the best in her new role and extend our heartfelt thanks for her unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions. Pob lwc, Jo!

Welcome to our new colleague

A warm welcome from Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales to our newest team member Kayleigh Hiorns.

Kayleigh joined our Money Matters Team in April 2024 as our new Financial Wellbeing Officer and brings a wealth of knowledge to the team.

No choice but to care – Carers Week Report 2024

Posted on June 26, 2024 by Michael Ford

No choice but to care

Carers UK carry out an annual survey into caring and this year their No choice but to care report was published on the first day of Carers Week 2024. The report found that 62% of those who are currently providing or those who have previously provided unpaid care said that they had no choice in taking on the role because no other care options were available – this is around 10 million adults.

While caring can be rewarding, the impact of providing unpaid care has been more negative than positive for all areas current and former unpaid carers were asked about, particularly for mental health (63%), physical health (53%), Job and ability to work (48%) and finances and savings (47%). The negative impacts as a result of caring were also felt most strongly by those who had no choice but to take on an unpaid caring role as well as women and those aged 45-54.

Ahead of the UK General Election, the research also found that 73% of members of the public surveyed for the research think that unpaid carers should receive more support from the next Government, particularly financial support and investment in social care.

Helen Walker, chief executive at Carers UK said:

“These findings demonstrate how caring can have a profound effect on every aspect of life and wellbeing, from mental and physical health, being able to work, or affecting their future income including pensions. That’s why we need to see a future Government deliver action across Government, in the form of a National Carers Strategy. With an ageing population, this is becoming ever more important.

“Carers Week is an important annual opportunity to ‘put carers on the map’. We want unpaid carers to know they are not forgotten, and they are not alone. Many are at breaking point, facing huge challenges with their caring responsibilities. On top of this they are struggling to manage their own health and wellbeing. Carers are worried about their long-term health, security and ability to care in the future.”

You can read the full report here:

https://www.carersuk.org/media/3dblytnt/carers-week-report-2024-web_final.pdf

Llais Cymru – June 2024 update

Posted on June 26, 2024June 26, 2024 by Michael Ford

Llais Cymru – June 2024 update

This is what we have been up over the past few months:

Asking your opinion – We have been asking the public how waiting for treatment has affects their lives daily.

What we have done – We have completed projects on A + E and Living Happier and Healthier within the community and those reports will be published soon. We also completed the Wayfinding project, and we are happy to say that we are working with the Health Board with some positive developments for patients.

Where have we been – We have spoken to clients at Links Llanelli, the Mental Health Recovering Gathering, Carmarthenshire Carers Support Services at carers week and Myrtle House Community Food Bank and have made representations which have resulted in a better, more positive experience for service users.

Where are we going?

During the month of July, we are:

Attending the Carmarthenshire Carers Forum
Attending Pride at Llanelli and Pembrokeshire
Representing Llais at the Royal Welsh Show

If you would like to share your Health and Social care experience with us, please contact us via westwalesenquiries@llaiscymru.org

ACTIF Sports and Leisure – FREE 3 months

Posted on June 25, 2024 by Michael Ford

ACTIF Sports and Leisure – FREE 3 months

As an unpaid carer you could be eligible for a FREE 3 month membership. This would entitle you to use all of Actif Sport and Leisure facilities. Don’t miss our – limited membership available!

The membership includes individual use of:

Gym
Fitness classes
Swimming (during public or lane sessions)
Health suite
Health checks
Exercise programmes

Carers Strategy Survey 2024

Posted on June 25, 2024June 26, 2024 by Michael Ford

Carers Strategy Survey 2024

The West Wales Regional Partnership Board (WWRPB) has launched a new survey to gather your views on support for carers in West Wales.

The survey is aimed for those who provide care for a person, have previously provided care, or an organisation which supports carers.

Your views on the services in West Wales will inform the Carers Strategy 2025 – 2030, which guides and prioritises the work that is required across West Wales.

The survey is completely anonymous.

Share your views and take the survey by clicking here.

Young Adult Carers Visit to the Royal Welsh Show: A Day of Discovery and Fun

ITV – Wales this Week: Too Young to Care?

Young Carers Club Creates Slime and Friendships at Bwlch

After the club, we received a lovely message from a parent that truly warmed our hearts:“[young person] loved club tonight. Thank you.”

Active Monitoring support helps clients understand and feel more in control of their emotions.

Summer 2024 – Carers Newsflash – Issue 5

Putting Carers on the Map – Carers Week 2024

Carers Strategy Survey 2024

No choice but to care – Carers Week Report 2024

A fond farewell and a new appointment

FREE Carmarthen Mental health service – Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen MIND

ACTIF Sports and Leisure – FREE 3 months

Carers Wales – Me Time

Dementia support in and around Ammanford

Dementia support with Admiral Nurses

Working together to support Carers – Co production in action in Carmarthenshire County Council by Emma Taylor-Hill

Investors in Carers – Gold Award revalidated

Catalysts for Care – Drop in & find out more

Carers Wales – Roadshow in Carmarthen

Llais Cymru – June 2024 update

Care and Repair – Managing Better

Carers Support West Wales

Carer’s Groups, Information Drop-In & Peer Support – Adferiad

How can Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales support unpaid carers?

Mental Health & Emotional Wellbeing Helplines

Useful Contacts

A fond farewell

Welcome to our new colleague

No choice but to care

Llais Cymru – June 2024 update

ACTIF Sports and Leisure – FREE 3 months

Carers Strategy Survey 2024

After the club, we received a lovely message from a parent that truly warmed our hearts:
“[young person] loved club tonight. Thank you.”