Jacqueline, 60, lives and works in London. For the past eight years, she has also been dedicated to caring for her elderly mother, Janice, 89, who faces severe osteoarthritis, depression, and early-stage dementia. Janice now lives in sheltered accommodation with Jacqueline visiting every day.
To support Janice, Jacqueline prepares and cooks fresh homemade meals, does her shopping, manages all Janice’s correspondence and coordinates her care. Janice does all of this whilst balancing her job.
In 2019, feeling overwhelmed by the demands of a full time job and caring, Jacqueline turned to Carers First for support. Cutting back her working hours to care for Janice had strained her finances, leaving little money for personal relaxation and self care.
After a review of her caring situation, she qualified for free activities, training and events through Carers First. Given her increasing caring responsibilities, a new Carer's Assessment was arranged, which highlighted Jacqueline’s need for a break.
Since connecting with Carers First, Jacqueline has been able to find some quality time for herself. She’s enjoyed Carefree breaks, osteopathic massages, mindfulness and Pilates sessions, art groups, and dance and movement classes. “We’ve even had the chance to visit Kew Gardens. The activities are fantastic and really cater to what people want,” Jacqueline shares. “These experiences have provided much-needed stress relief.”
One standout opportunity that Jacqueline is currently accessing is a Level 2 pottery course, which she finds incredibly therapeutic. Inspired by the course, she’s now considering completing the level 3 course to help her gain knowledge and skills to start her own pottery business.
"These activities have not only helped me to pause and focus on my well-being amidst the demands of caring, but they have also inspired me to start something new. I’m looking to begin my own pottery business thanks to this course." she says.
"Carers First activities help me find healthy ways to cope with the challenges of being a carer," Jacqueline explains. She values how these sessions engage her feelings and allow her to express them creatively.
"The sessions have been overwhelming in the best way. They’re fantastically structured, helping me relax and channel my emotions into art," she adds. "As a carer, your focus is always on the person you care for. These groups have helped me stop and concentrate on myself, which makes a huge difference. I don’t know where I’d be without Carers First."
Jacqueline’s story is a testament to her resilience and dedication, highlighting the importance of better recognition and increased support for carers. It’s time to put all carers on the map and acknowledge the vital roles that they play in society, empowering them to adequately care for themselves, whilst they are dedicating their lives, caring for others.
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