Welcome back to another blog post by carer activist Matthew McKenzie. I am involved in quite a few things and one of them is being one of the Carer Network Ambassadors for Cygnet. This means we have a keen interest in networking and support families, friends and carers throughout the community.

One way to connect to carers is through carer led events. You see, we are more than just our roles, we are more than carers and just once there should be a space for families, friends can carers to express themselves, take time out for themselves despite the emotional and difficult journeys they face.

So following off the successful event held over at one of the Cygnet sites Churchill hospital.

Carers Annette Davis and Faith Smith set out to host Postive Talents part 2 to give a chance for carers to showcase their talents and have a night out for entertainment to reduce isolation.

The Positive Talents – Part 2 event took place on friday 29th of November 2024. For this event we had an amazing range of performing acts, including poets, singers, dancers, book readings and interests that those with lived experience of caring promoted.

I will not go fully into all the acts as you can watch the video below and fast forward to any of the performances you want to see.

The event included a Raffle section, food and refreshments and a way for carers to network to reduce isolation and stigma.

However the event was worth attending to give carers of London a chance to have space for them with thanks to Laura Sheridan Cygnet Head Carer & Service User Engagement and staff at Cygnet for the excellent hospitality.

Well done to all the carers who performed at the event who were awarded certificates.

We look forward for the next Positive Talents show.