News

People in Poole who care for a relative or friend at home are being given the opportunity to attend a Social Services Carers Course for free! The course starts on Wednesday 25^th September 2002 and runs between 11am and 2pm every Wednesday for ten weeks.

Val Mitchell, Carers Support Officer, Adult Social Services (Commissioning), said: "Caring can be difficult and isolating at times and some people don’t know how to get help or support. These courses are very popular - they provide a chance to meet other people in a similar situation and get information, advice and reassurance. Courses like ours help carers to find out more about services which can help. We encourage people to come along and find out more."

The Borough of Poole’s Social Services Carers Course includes sessions on carers rights, claiming benefits, safety in the home and care techniques including back care for those who need to lift or move others.

Cllr Jane James, Executive Portfolio Holder for Tackling Disadvantage, said: "There is a lot of support locally for carers who can sometimes find the experience lonely and isolating. Studies have shown that carers who accept help and support to look after someone can improve their own health and the health of the person they care for. People who care have special qualities and much responsibility and it is important that we offer them support and advise where needed, this course an opportunity to do that."

The person being cared for may be older and frail, have a disability or serious illness and need help with everyday life.

Val Mitchell or Lynne Payton on (01202) 261170/4 as soon as possible.

1 in 6 adults in the UK care for someone
64% of carers have health problems themselves
Many carers are also older people some are providing 24 hour care \n