Taste, Togetherness, Transformation: The Meal That Changed Perspectives

Posted on December 6, 2024December 6, 2024 by Michael Ford

Taste, Togetherness, Transformation: The Meal That Changed Perspectives

We were delighted to welcome Sarah Fraser, the Young Carer Engagement Officer for Carers Trust Wales, who joined us to connect with the young people, understand their circumstances, and explain how her role could support them. Sarah’s work focuses on empowering young and young adult carers and raising their aspirations through three key initiatives:

First, the Young Carers in Schools Challenge aims to empower young carers and create supportive communities within schools. The initiative encourages local services to work closely with schools, helping them identify and support young carers effectively.

Second, the Youth Council amplifies the voices of young carers aged 11-18, enabling them to campaign for change, contribute to youth parliament activities, shape Carers Trust Wales projects, and participate in research. It also fosters the development of skills like communication, teamwork, and confidence.

Finally, the Employability Project raises awareness of young adult carers’ transferable skills and encourages inclusivity in the workplace. This initiative provides training, resources, and opportunities to explore career paths, helping young carers build aspirations and access opportunities post-16.

We look forward to collaborating with Sarah in the future, enabling the young carers we work with to participate in these transformative projects and benefit from the opportunities they provide. This partnership represents an exciting step toward empowering young carers and supporting them to achieve their full potential.

This year’s Young Adult Carers Annual Christmas event was a heart-warming success, full of joy, discovery, and connection. By popular demand, we returned to Nines in Swansea, a global buffet offering a variety of cuisines that catered to everyone’s tastes. For some young carers, this was their first experience trying foods from around the world. One young carer shared their excitement, saying, “This is amazing, I have never seen anything like it!”

Beyond the culinary adventure, the event provided invaluable opportunities for young carers to step away from their responsibilities and immerse themselves in an environment of peer support and friendship. These moments allow young carers to connect with others who share similar experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding that is often hard to find elsewhere.

Such events are more than just a break from routine; they create lasting memories and relationships that remind young carers they are not alone. These connections can help build their confidence and emotional resilience, providing a support network that will benefit them long after the event.

By giving young carers the chance to experience something new and uplifting, we not only celebrate their hard work but also open doors to opportunities and perspectives they might not otherwise encounter due to their caregiving roles or financial challenges.

Celebrating Partnership and Support at Ysgol Heol Goffa’s Macmillan Coffee Morning

Posted on October 11, 2024October 11, 2024 by Michael Ford

Celebrating Partnership and Support at Ysgol Heol Goffa’s Macmillan Coffee Morning

Yesterday, we had the pleasure of attending Ysgol Heol Goffa’s Care and Support coffee morning, held in aid of Macmillan. It was a fantastic event that brought together not only the school community but also key partners from health, social, and community services. Ysgol Heol Goffa, located in Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, is a special school providing tailored education for pupils aged 3 to 19 with a variety of needs, including moderate to profound learning disabilities, autism, and social-emotional challenges. The school’s dedication to celebrating each pupil’s individuality and success aligns perfectly with our mission.

The coffee morning provided an excellent platform for us to showcase the wide range of support services we offer to carers and the children they care for. We value our partnership with the school and believe working closely with such dedicated institutions enhances our ability to reach and support families in meaningful ways. Events like these also offer us the chance to connect directly with the children we support and other wonderful young people.

And, of course, the delicious cakes at the Macmillan coffee morning added a sweet touch to an already wonderful event!

It’s partnerships like this that help strengthen our community, making it easier for us all to provide the best possible care and support. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Ysgol Heol Goffa and other valuable community partners in the future!

Supporting the Mental Health of Young Carers, with Coleg Sir Gâr

Posted on October 10, 2024October 11, 2024 by Michael Ford

Supporting the Mental Health of Young Carers, with Coleg Sir Gâr

Being a student brings a host of challenges—financial pressures, moving away from home, managing relationships, and the demands of studying and exams. However, for young carers, these challenges are amplified by the added responsibility of caring for a loved one. Unlike their peers, young carers often have to leave lectures early or spend their days worrying about the person they care for, adding an extra layer of stress to an already demanding life.

Research shows that young carers are more likely to achieve lower grades than their abilities would predict, simply due to the pressures of their caring role. In Wales, statistics confirm that this constant strain takes a toll on their mental health and well-being, with many young carers acknowledging that the burden negatively affects their emotional resilience and ability to focus on their studies.

This is where Carmarthenshire Crossroads Young Carers (CCYC) plays a vital role. The service works closely with schools and colleges to identify young carers early, ensuring they receive the tailored support they need to thrive both academically and personally. A key part of this is our collaboration with the wellbeing team at Coleg Sir Gâr. Together, we ensure that young carers are identified at the earliest opportunity, and we work to provide robust, ongoing support tailored to their individual needs.

CCYC’s dedicated key workers offer one-to-one support, providing a safe space for young carers to talk about their struggles and guiding them in accessing other essential services that can ease their load. Additionally, our group sessions give young carers the chance to connect with peers who share similar experiences, allowing them to discuss their caring roles and unwind from the daily pressures they face. We also organise activities and overnight stays, giving them the rare opportunity to step away from their responsibilities and simply enjoy being young.

As part of our commitment to supporting young carers, we were proud to participate in the Coleg Sir Gâr event on 10th October, celebrating World Mental Health Day. Alongside other organisations, we were there to show young people that we are present when they need us, offering the support they require to thrive both in their caring roles and in their personal lives.

The services provided by CCYC are crucial for young carers in Carmarthenshire. Together with the wellbeing team at Coleg Sir Gâr, we offer a lifeline to those balancing education with the heavy weight of caring, ensuring they are not only seen and supported but also given the opportunity to succeed—both in the classroom and beyond.

By offering this essential support, CCYC is helping to uplift a generation of young carers who deserve not only recognition for their dedication but also the chance to reach their full potential.

HRH The Princess Royal meets carers from West Wales at Carers Trust Conference

Posted on October 3, 2024October 11, 2024 by Michael Ford

Carers Trust President, HRH The Princess Royal, met unpaid carers from West Wales at the Short Breaks Conference on Thursday 3 October.

Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales, along with other caring organisations and unpaid carers, attended the conference at the Glamorgan County Cricket Club in Cardiff, organised by Carers Trust Wales. The conference highlighted the impact of the Short Breaks Scheme, which provides an opportunity for unpaid carers to have a short break away from their caring role.

Kate Cubbage, Director Carers Trust Wales, says, “Unpaid carers play a vital role supporting family members, friends and neighbours. Our fragile health and social care system is reliant on the often selfless contribution of carers. I am delighted that our President, HRH The Princess Royal, met and spoke with many of the organisations delivering the Short Breaks Scheme, a scheme that is essential to sustaining carers in the crucial role they play in communities across Wales. Carers who have benefited from a short break also had the opportunity to meet with Her Royal Highness to share the difference taking a short break had made to them and those they care for.”

Kate continues, “There are over 310,000 unpaid carers in Wales. Their commitment is often unseen and undervalued. We welcomed the opportunity for HRH The Princess Royal to hear how the Short Breaks Scheme has made a bold start in helping to transform their lives.”

Minister for Children and Social Care, Dawn Bowden said: “It was an honour to speak at the Carers Trust Short Breaks conference and hear from unpaid carers who have benefitted from our Short Breaks scheme. We highly value the vital role that unpaid carers play in our communities. Our £9m investment reflects our commitment to have additional opportunities for unpaid carers across Wales to take a break from their caring roles to maintain their physical and mental wellbeing.”

The Short Breaks Scheme is funded by Welsh Government and coordinated by Carers Trust Wales. It aims to supports 30,000 unpaid carers of all ages in Wales to take a break from their caring role, through overnight breaks, group activities and small grants by 2025. Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales is one of 27 caring organisations helping to deliver the scheme in 2024/25.

Carers Trust Wales launched a website (www.shortbreaksscheme.wales) this year to help unpaid carers find a break in their area.

Carer Support Pembrokeshire LAUNCHED

Posted on September 30, 2024October 1, 2024 by Michael Ford

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the new Carers Support Pembrokeshire – a dedicate resource designed to support carers in our community providing information, advice and support for carers in Pembrokeshire.

Our new service offers:

Expert Guidance: We offer tailored one-to-one support from experienced professionals on managing your caring responsibilities.
Resources and Tools: Access a wide range of helpful materials, including guides, local services, and financial support information.
Support Networks: Connect with other carers and discover local support groups, training, and events tailored to your needs.
Carers Grants
Short breaks, respite and replacement care
Free monthly legal advice surgeries

Rydym wrth ein bodd yn cyhoeddi lansiad gwasanaeth newydd Cymorth i Ofalwyr Sir Benfro – adnodd pwrpasol a gynlluniwyd i gynorthwyo gofalwyr yn ein cymuned, trwy ddarparu gwybodaeth, cyngor a chymorth i ofalwyr yn Sir Benfro.

Mae ein gwasanaeth newydd yn cynnig:

Arweiniad Arbenigol: Rydym yn cynnig cymorth un i un wedi’i deilwra gan weithwyr proffesiynol profiadol ar reoli eich cyfrifoldebau gofalu.
Adnoddau ac Offer: Gallwch gyrchu ystod eang o ddeunyddiau defnyddiol, gan gynnwys canllawiau, gwasanaethau lleol, a gwybodaeth am gymorth ariannol.
Rhwydweithiau Cymorth: Cewch gysylltu â gofalwyr eraill a darganfod grwpiau cymorth, hyfforddiant, a digwyddiadau lleol wedi’u teilwra i’ch anghenion.
Grantiau Gofalwyr.
Seibiannau byr, gofal seibiant a gofal amgen.
Cymorthfeydd cyngor cyfreithiol misol am ddim.

Find out more about the service through the downloadable leaflet / Dysgwch fwy am y gwasanaeth trwy’r daflen y gellir ei lawrlwytho

Access the service via our online referral form / Cyrchwch y gwasanaeth trwy ein ffurflen atgyfeirio ar-lein

Or call 0300 0200 002 or email carerssupportpembs@ctcww.org.uk / Neu ffoniwch 0300 0200 002 neu e-bostiwch carerssupportpembs@ctcww.org.uk

Freshers Week in Carmarthenshire

Posted on September 27, 2024September 27, 2024 by Michael Ford

Freshers Week in Carmarthenshire

As young people across the country prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives for college or university, young carers face unique challenges in balancing their academic ambitions with their caring responsibilities. Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales steps up to support these young carers, offering essential guidance, arranging continuing support information as they make the significant transition into further and higher education.

During Freshers Week, our entire team was present at colleges and universities across Carmarthenshire to connect with new and returning students who may be young carers. We aim to ensure that young carers are identified early, feel welcomed, supported, and informed about the assistance available to them during their studies.

Relocating for uni

Moving away to university is a significant milestone, but it can also be a time of uncertainty, particularly for young carers who are used to balancing their education with caring responsibilities at home. Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales understands the complex pressures young carers face and is dedicated to providing practical solutions to help them succeed in this new environment and offer peace of mind of support available for the family remaining at home.

Our experienced staff are equipped to engage directly with young carers at Freshers Fairs, answering questions, offering information and resources, and helping to identify specific support services that can make their university experience smoother.

Collaborating with Education Establishments

Our commitment to young carers goes beyond Freshers’ Week. Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales actively collaborates with schools, colleges and universities on an ongoing basis. We regularly engage with teaching staff, student support services, and key establishment members. These interactions are vital for ensuring that young carers are identified early, allowing them to access the help they need before they become overwhelmed.

Through our outreach programmes and staff training sessions, we equip others with the tools to identify, support and refer these students on. Whether it’s by identifying potential young carers in their classes or guiding them to relevant resources, education establishments play a crucial role in early identification, creating a supportive environment for young carers and helping them access additional support.

Future Frontline Professionals

In addition to working with education staff, Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales also reaches out to student teachers, nurses, and other future professionals. By raising awareness during their training, we aim to build a network of informed individuals who can identify and support young carers in their future careers.

This outreach is critical, as young carers often remain hidden within educational and healthcare settings, only being identified when their responsibilities begin to take a toll on their academic or personal well-being.

For more information about our services and how we support young carers, please visit our get in touch with our dedicated team. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of young carers across West Wales.

Service Update: Temporary Suspension of New Referrals for CATCHUP and MONEY MATTERS

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

Service Update: Temporary Suspension of New Referrals for CATCHUP and MONEY MATTERS

Due to an exceptionally high demand for our services, CATCHUP and MONEY MATTERS have temporarily suspended all new referrals. We understand the importance of your requests; however, please note that our inbox is not currently being monitored, and we are unable to respond to emails or process new inquiries or referrals at this time.

For those who have already been referred, please be assured that we will contact you as soon as we are able. Due to the current backlog, this may take up to 8 weeks. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this period.

In the meantime, if you require urgent benefit advice or support, there are alternative resources available:

Claim What’s Yours: For benefit advice, checks, and support, Tel:0808 250 5700.
Citizens Advice Bureaux Live Chat: You can access benefit guidance via live chat on the Citizens Advice Bureaux website.
Age Cymru Dyfed: Clients aged 50+ can receive welfare benefits advice by calling Tel:03333 447874.
Money Helper Benefits Calculator: Use the Money Helper Welfare Benefits Calculator to check your entitlements.

We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused by this temporary suspension and appreciate your continued patience.

Thank you for your understanding.

The CATCHUP and MONEY MATTERS Team

Young Carers Festival 2024

Posted on September 9, 2024September 9, 2024 by Michael Ford

Young Carers Shine at the 2024 Young Carers Festival in Wales

A group of dedicated young carers from our community recently had the opportunity to attend the annual Young Carers Festival 2024, held in Llanelwedd at the Royal Welsh Showground. The event, which took place over the weekend, brought together young carers from across Wales for a celebration of their hard work and resilience. Although the festival included camping for several groups, our attendees participated on August 21st as day visitors, allowing them to experience the highlights of the event while returning home the same day.

A Day of Fun, Learning, and Connection

Despite attending for just one day, the experience was packed with engaging activities, workshops, and entertainment tailored to meet the needs of young carers. From outdoor challenges to creative arts sessions, the festival provided our young carers with a much-needed break and the chance to be around others who share similar life experiences.

Empowering Young Carers

In addition to the activities, the festival included informative sessions aimed at empowering young carers and giving them a voice. Workshops focused on mental health, self-care, and practical skills were a key part of the event. Although our group’s time at the festival was brief, they still took part in discussions about the challenges they face and what support they need. Topics such as better access to mental health resources and improved respite services were emphasised.

Building Connections and Community

The festival was more than just a break from daily responsibilities — it was an opportunity to connect with others who understand the unique challenges of being a young carer. While our group couldn’t stay overnight, the bonds they formed and the shared sense of community left a lasting impression.
Youth worker Michael, who accompanied the group, remarked, “Even though we could only attend for a day, the young carers had an amazing time. It’s important for them to know they’re not alone and that there’s a whole community of people who understand what they’re going through. Events like this help build their confidence and show them how much they’re valued.”

Looking Forward

The 2024 Young Carers Festival may have only been a single day for our group, but its impact will be long-lasting. The attendees returned home with new friendships, positive memories, and a renewed sense of belonging. Our community is proud of these young carers and appreciates the support that events like this provide.

As the role of young carers continues to be recognised, the festival highlighted the ongoing need for increased resources and better support. While our young carers face many challenges, their determination and strength were evident at this year’s festival, reminding us of the importance of continuing to champion their needs and celebrate their contributions.

Breaking Barriers: Young Carers Discover Academic Potential in themselves

Posted on September 3, 2024September 9, 2024 by Michael Ford

Breaking Barriers: Young Carers Discover Academic Potential in themselves

Over the summer holidays, a group of Young Carers participated in a residential experience at Swansea University, organised by Reaching Wider. The program aimed to provide these young carers with a taste of university life and an opportunity to explore various academic and recreational activities, as well as giving the Young Carers a well-deserved break from their caring roles.

Objectives:

Provide Young Carers with a first hand experience of university life, including staying in student halls.
Introduce young carers to a variety of academic disciplines and potential career paths.
Foster a sense of well-being and community among Young Carers.
Offer a break from their caring responsibilities and allow them to engage in fun, educational, and creative activities.

Activities

During their stay at Swansea University, the Young Carers participated in a wide range of activities that were both educational and recreational:

Occupational Therapy Workshop: This session allowed the Young Carers to learn about the field of occupational therapy, understand its importance, and engage in practical demonstrations.
Zoology Exploration: An interactive session where the carers could explore different aspects of zoology, learning about animal biology, habitats, and conservation efforts.
Paramedics Experience: This activity provided insight into the life and duties of a paramedic. Participants learned about emergency response techniques and the importance of first aid skills.
Bowling: A recreational activity that promoted team-building and fun. It was a great way for the carers to relax and bond with each other.
Creative Activity: This included arts and crafts, encouraging self-expression and creativity. It also served as a therapeutic activity to relieve stress.
Well-being Sessions: Various sessions focused on mental health, relaxation techniques, and strategies to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Feedback

‘I just would like to say I was really scared of going on my own and I didn’t know if I wanted to go but I did and I am glad I did because it was absolutely brilliant, and I can I just say the staff were excellent. My favourite activity we did was the paramedics I never thought I would love something so much in my life the whole experience was amazing I would love to go again’

‘I thoroughly enjoyed the experience at Swansea university as it opened up more interests for me and allowed me to have a lot of fun with my friends, I would love to go again as it was a great opportunity to experience new things.’

Hi my name’s faith I went on the Swansea university residential I enjoyed the experience and am looking forward to go to university in the future it was a break from day to day life and I’ve learnt many things such as university isn’t like school as you can make your schedule to suite you and as a young carer is very helpful. The University is a safe secure place and I felt I could speak to the staff members comfortably if needed. I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would like to go again.

Hi my name is Katie-Ann I went on a Swansea university and I enjoined the experience of all of the different choices of the things you can do at Swansea University. The thing I enjoyed the most is was when we did the paramedics I would really like to go to a university.

Lacey said She really enjoyed the residential stay away as she made more friends. Lacey said she enjoyed the paramedic and OT session. Bowling was fun and she enjoyed going to Nines in the evening as we have been in the day before. Felt spoilt with all the free goodies.

I thoroughly enjoyed the young carers trip to Swansea University. Even though I didn’t stay overnight I attended the 2 days and loved every activity I did in them both. My favourite part was the paramedics session, I gained a lot of helpful information from this lesson. I enjoyed with all of the other young cares especially going bowling and going to nines. I want to say thank you to everybody that made them days so special to me and I enjoyed every minute of them. Diolch x

— PRESS RELEASE — Carer Support Pembrokeshire

Posted on August 20, 2024August 20, 2024 by Michael Ford

— PRESS RELEASE — Carer Support Pembrokeshire

Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales is delighted to be working in partnership with Pembrokeshire County Council and Hywel Dda University Health Board to support unpaid carers living in Pembrokeshire. The Carers Support Pembrokeshire service will offer adult carers information and support on a range of issues including access to short breaks, financial support, carer wellbeing and a range of other topics.

Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales is a proud Network Partner of Carers Trust, the largest UK wide network of carers organisations and play a significant role in influencing policy to improve the recognition and support for unpaid carers across the UK. As a regional charity, our mission is to ensure that unpaid carers in West Wales are heard, valued, and have access to the support, advice and resources they need to live fulfilling lives.

Alison Harries, Chief Executive Officer at Carers Trust Crossroads West Wales said:
“we have been delivering support services for carers in Carmarthenshire for over 40 years and more recently secured funding to provide financial information and support to carers in Pembrokeshire through the Welsh Government funded Carers Support Fund.

We are delighted to be working with Pembrokeshire County Council and Hywel Dda University Health Board to support carers across the county. Carers are at the heart of everything we do, and we look forward to working in partnership with colleagues to make sure that carers receive the vital support they deserve.”

Pembrokeshire County Council Carers Champion Cllr Mike James said:
“It’s great to see this collaborative effort continue, especially as it supports people in our communities who need it most. This is an excellent example of effective partnership working, for the carers in our county.”

For more information or support carerssupportpembs@ctcww.org.uk