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.
Living with Parkinson’s disease is undeniably challenging, not just for those diagnosed but also for those who support them. During a recent panel discussion from Parkinsons UK, experience of care experts including Matthew McKenzie and volunteers shared their insights and experiences on managing these challenges, offering valuable advice for fellow caregivers. The discussion highlighted key aspects of being on the supporters journey, from communicating diagnoses to seeking support and handling medication concerns. Here, we summarize the essential points covered during the session for a comprehensive guide.
Parkinson’s UK is a leading charity dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by Parkinson’s disease in the United Kingdom. Established in 1969, the organization provides vital support, information, and resources to individuals living with the condition, as well as their families and caregivers. Parkinson’s UK also funds groundbreaking research aimed at finding better treatments and ultimately a cure for the disease.
Parkinson’s UK held a Panel interview to highlight and educate those who are new to the caring role and want to find out more about supporting someone with Parkinsons. Below is a small summary of the panel interview, although if you want to watch the Panel discussion, please click on the video below.
Here is another blog for to raise awareness of Carers Rights Day 2024 – Recognising your rights as a carer.
This blog is written by Carers UK volunteer Matthew McKenzie who runs many carer groups and is also a poet and author.
I have also created a video to help raise awareness of Carers Rights day.
Exploring the Importance of Carers Rights Day 2024
Carers Rights Day 2024, a significant annual event in the UK, is organized by Carers UK, a leading charity dedicated to supporting unpaid carers across the country. This day focuses on raising awareness about the legal rights, support, and resources available to unpaid carers and ensuring they can access the help they need. Traditionally held in late November, this year, Carers Rights Day will occur on Thursday, 21st November, under the theme “Recognizing Your Rights as a Carer”.
The Role of Unpaid Carers in Society
Unpaid carers play an essential role in society by providing invaluable support to family members, friends, or neighbors who cannot manage daily activities due to illness, disability, mental health issues, or old age. Despite their crucial contributions, unpaid carers often face significant challenges, including financial strain, emotional stress, and lack of recognition. Carers Rights Day is vital in shedding light on these challenges and educating both the public and carers about their rights and the available support systems.
Objectives of Carers Rights Day
Raising Awareness
One of the primary objectives of Carers Rights Day is to raise awareness about carers’ rights. This involves highlighting the critical role that unpaid carers play in society and the unique challenges they encounter. Awareness campaigns are designed to educate carers about their legal rights, encompassing financial, practical, and emotional support they are entitled to receive.
Educating Carers and the Public
Carers Rights Day aims to educate not only carers themselves but also the broader public. By informing carers about their entitlements and the support available to them, the day helps empower them to advocate for their rights and the rights of those they care for. The day is also geared towards educating society about the crucial work done by unpaid carers and the need to support them better.
Empowering Unpaid Carers
Empowering unpaid carers is another critical objective of Carers Rights Day. This is achieved by providing vital information on various entitlements, such as benefits, workplace rights, and access to health and social care services. By understanding their entitlements, carers can feel more confident in seeking the support they need and advocating for themselves and those they care for.
Access to Benefits and Support Services
Carers are often unaware of the full range of benefits and support services available to them. On Carers Rights Day, information sessions and workshops are held to educate carers about these resources. This could include details on financial aid, respite care options, and mental health support, all of which are crucial in ensuring carers can continue to provide high-quality care without sacrificing their well-being.
Influencing Policy Change
Carers Rights Day also aims to influence policy changes that will improve the lives of unpaid carers. By encouraging conversations about necessary policy adjustments, the event aims to engage organizations, policymakers, and communities in recognizing and supporting unpaid carers. This advocacy is crucial for driving systemic changes that can lead to better support and recognition for carers nationwide.
Engaging Policy Makers and Organizations
The day provides an opportunity to engage with policymakers and organizations, urging them to consider the unique needs of carers when designing and implementing policies. By involving these stakeholders, Carers Rights Day can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for unpaid carers, encouraging initiatives that can significantly improve their quality of life.
Activities and Events on Carers Rights Day
Information Sessions and Workshops
Throughout the country, various activities and events will be held to raise awareness about the rights of unpaid carers. These may include information sessions and workshops hosted by local authorities, NHS health organizations, and charities. These sessions aim to educate carers and the public about the support available and how to access it.
Local Authorities and Health Organizations
Local authorities and NHS health organizations play a pivotal role during Carers Rights Day by hosting events that educate carers about their rights and available resources. These organizations can provide insights into local support services, advice on navigating the healthcare system, and information on how carers can claim their entitlements.
Support Clinics and Drop-In Sessions
Support clinics and drop-in sessions are organized to provide carers with the opportunity to ask questions and seek advice from professionals. These sessions offer a personal touch, addressing individual concerns and guiding carers on how to manage their unique situations.
Personalized Support and Advice
Personalized support is essential for carers dealing with specific challenges. Drop-in sessions aim to offer tailored advice, covering various issues such as managing stress, accessing financial support, and understanding workplace rights. These sessions provide a crucial support network, enabling carers to feel less isolated and more confident in their roles.
Campaigns and Advocacy
Carers Rights Day also features numerous campaigns, both online and offline, to amplify the voices of unpaid carers. Advocacy efforts aim to raise public awareness and generate broader support for carers’ rights.
Online and Offline Campaigns
Campaigns conducted both online and offline help spread the message about the importance of supporting unpaid carers. Social media campaigns, public service announcements, and community outreach programs all contribute to raising awareness and encouraging societal support for carers.
Events Hosted by Care Centers and Charities
Care centers and charities often host events to commemorate Carers Rights Day, further raising awareness about the essential role of unpaid carers and the challenges they face. These events can include workshops, information sessions, and community gatherings aimed at providing support and resources to carers.
Collaboration with Carer Centers
Collaboration with care centers ensures that carers are connected to essential services and support networks. Events hosted by these centers typically focus on providing practical advice, emotional support, and opportunities for carers to connect with others in similar situations.
Conclusion
Carers Rights Day 2024 stands as a crucial event dedicated to recognizing, supporting, and empowering unpaid carers. By raising awareness, providing essential information, and advocating for policy changes, Carers Rights Day aims to improve the lives of carers across the UK. Whether through information sessions, support clinics, or advocacy campaigns, the day offers various ways for carers to access the resources and support they need to continue their vital work. As a society, understanding the importance of unpaid carers and the challenges they face is paramount in ensuring they receive the recognition and support they deserve.
As someone who has lived experience of caring for a close relative who lived with Diabetes, I took it upon myself to raise awareness on World Diabetes day 2024. This blog and video is by carer activist Matthew McKenzie, also volunteer for Carers UK and part of the London Cancer community of Macmillan Cancer Support.
If you wish to watch my short video to learn about the global campaign on World Diabetes Day. See Below.
In this blog post, you can learn about the global campaign on World Diabetes Day to increase awareness, educate on symptoms, promote prevention, and support research for better treatments and a cure. Plus find ways to get involved in activities and initiatives to aid diabetes prevention and management.
Raising Awareness: World Diabetes Day 2024
World Diabetes Day, observed annually on November 14th, serves as a global awareness campaign aimed at increasing understanding of diabetes and the issues faced by those affected by the condition. This significant day was established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization in response to the growing health threat posed by diabetes. The goals of World Diabetes Day are multifaceted, focusing on awareness, education, prevention, access to treatment, advocacy, and support for research. Let’s delve deeper into these critical aspects to understand the importance of this day and how you can contribute.
Understanding the Goals of World Diabetes Day
Increase Awareness
One of the primary objectives of World Diabetes Day is to increase awareness about diabetes. This involves educating the general public about the condition, its symptoms, prevention methods, and the importance of early diagnosis. Raising awareness helps in demystifying diabetes, reducing stigma, and promoting a collective effort towards a common cause.
Educate on Symptoms and Prevention
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to managing health conditions like diabetes. World Diabetes Day strives to educate people on the symptoms of diabetes, which can often go unnoticed until they become severe. By promoting awareness of these symptoms, individuals can seek medical advice sooner, leading to early diagnosis and better management.
Prevention is equally important, particularly for type 2 diabetes. The campaign emphasizes lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, which can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis of diabetes is crucial for preventing complications and managing the condition effectively. World Diabetes Day campaigns stress the importance of regular health check-ups and monitoring of blood sugar levels. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can prevent or delay complications such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, and kidney issues.
Improve Access to Treatment
Affordable and quality care for all people with diabetes is a cornerstone goal of World Diabetes Day. This involves advocating for better healthcare policies and increased funding for diabetes care, ensuring that individuals, regardless of their economic status, have access to necessary treatments and medications.
Advocate for Affordable and Quality Care
World Diabetes Day also emphasizes the need for policy changes at both local and global levels. Advocacy efforts aim to influence healthcare policies to ensure that diabetes care is affordable and of high quality. This includes pushing for the availability of essential medications, including insulin, and ensuring that healthcare systems can support people living with diabetes.
Promote Prevention
Preventing diabetes, especially type 2, is a significant focus of World Diabetes Day activities. By encouraging a healthier lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and stress management, the campaign aims to reduce the incidence of diabetes globally. Public health initiatives and community programs play a crucial role in promoting these lifestyle changes.
Support Research
Supporting research is vital for the advancement of diabetes treatment and technology, and ultimately, finding a cure. World Diabetes Day encourages individuals and organizations to donate to or volunteer for research initiatives. Continued research not only aids in the development of new treatments but also enhances the understanding of diabetes, leading to better management strategies.
Encourage Advancements in Technology
Technological advancements in diabetes treatment have been revolutionary, from insulin pumps to continuous glucose monitoring systems. World Diabetes Day promotes the adoption and development of such technologies, aiming to improve the quality of life for those living with diabetes. These advancements can make management easier and more efficient, allowing for better control over the condition.
Foster Community Support
Community support is integral to managing diabetes. World Diabetes Day activities often include educational workshops, health screenings, campaigns, and fundraising initiatives. These efforts create a sense of community, providing resources and support to those affected by diabetes and their families.
Types of Activities on World Diabetes Day
Educational Events, Workshops, and Seminars
Educational events such as workshops and seminars are a staple of World Diabetes Day. These events are designed to inform people about diabetes management and prevention strategies. Health professionals often lead these sessions, providing valuable insights and answering questions from the community.
Health Screenings
Health screenings are another crucial activity associated with World Diabetes Day. Community centers, clinics, and organizations frequently offer free blood sugar testing and counseling. These screenings can help identify individuals at risk, providing them with necessary information and guidance on managing their health.
Campaigns and Fundraising Initiatives
Campaigns and fundraising initiatives are essential for supporting diabetes research and providing resources for those affected by the condition. These initiatives can range from community walks and runs to social media campaigns and donation drives. The funds raised play a significant role in advancing diabetes research and supporting public health programs.
Lighting Landmarks Blue
The blue circle is the global symbol for diabetes awareness. On World Diabetes Day, landmarks around the world are often illuminated in blue to show support for diabetes awareness. This visual representation serves as a powerful reminder of the global effort to combat diabetes and show solidarity with those affected by the condition.
How to Participate in World Diabetes Day
Spread Awareness
One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to participate in World Diabetes Day is to spread awareness. Use social media platforms to share facts, resources, and personal stories related to diabetes. Engaging in conversations online can help reach a broader audience and inspire action.
Organize or Attend Events
Participating in or organizing local or virtual diabetes awareness events is another excellent way to contribute. These events can range from educational workshops to community health fairs and fundraising activities. By engaging in these events, you can help spread important information and support those affected by diabetes.
Support a Healthier Lifestyle
Taking steps toward a healthier lifestyle is a proactive way to honor World Diabetes Day. This includes eating a balanced diet, incorporating regular exercise into your routine, and managing stress effectively. By making these positive changes, you not only reduce your own risk of developing type 2 diabetes but also set an example for others in your community.
Support Research Organizations
Supporting organizations dedicated to diabetes research is another meaningful way to participate. This can be done through donations or volunteering your time. These organizations play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of diabetes and developing new treatments and, eventually, a cure.
Conclusion
World Diabetes Day is an essential global campaign that addresses the growing health threat posed by diabetes. By increasing awareness, educating the public, promoting prevention, improving access to treatment, and supporting research, World Diabetes Day aims to make a significant impact on the lives of those affected by diabetes. Your participation can make a difference, whether through spreading awareness, attending events, adopting healthier lifestyle choices, or supporting research initiatives. Together, we can work towards a world where diabetes is managed effectively and, ultimately, prevented.
Welcome back to another blog post from Carer activist, author and Cygnet Carer Ambassador Matthew Mckenzie.
Over the years I have been working hard to promote and engage with unpaid carers at Cygnet along with the other Cygnet Carer Ambassador Leslie, Julian and Christine. It was due time to have a relaxing break or at least a stroll around London. With Cygnet carer Lead Laura Sheridan helping to record the day, our group explored around the city
We were on our way to Cygnet’s Annual Social Work Awards 2024 hosted over at Cygnet Churchill hospital over in Lambeth.
This was going to be an excellent and inspiring event, but before we attended, we aimed to take some photos and continue to explore London.
It was not long before we arrived at Churchhill Lambeth hospital. The staff welcomed us as we talked to the social workers up for awards and we also chatted to lord Kamlesh Patel OBE about the importance of unpaid carers.
As the awards got underway, I noticed a good line of speakers who presented the about the importance of Social work and specific campaigns. This included Lord Kamlesh Patel who opened the award ceremony. The set up for the event was hybrid with online and onsite attendees from across different cygnet hospitals.
We also heard from Cygnet Deputy Director of nursing Jo-Ann McAuliffe. Next to speak was Cygnet strategic lead for mental health & prisons Christina Cheney. Christina spoke about the state of the nation when it comes to mental health and social work.
We then heard from Paula Tappenden who is Cygnets Head of Social Work and Safeguarding. Paula spoke about the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation and her mission to make a difference in ending human trafficking and how Cygnet Social workers could support.
After Lunch and socialising. We got to view the Cygnet Social Work Award ceremony for the following categories
Social Work Assistant of the Year
Social Worker of the year
Leadership in Social work
Well done for all who were nominated and also the winners. All who took part set an example to social workers at the organisation.
After the award ceremony I spoke as a Cygnet Carer network ambassador on the importance of engaging with carers especially using the “Triangle of Care” method and empowerment of lived experience
We had lots of audience engagement, plus support from my fellow Cygnet Carer ambassadors giving their view of carer acknowledgement and empowerment.
Up next to speak was Chloe Cooper-Brown who is Cygnet’s Head of Social Work and Safeguarding Lead on sharing the Risk with discharges and joint working with the Police. Last to speak before our group headed off was hearing from Euan Atkinson who presented on his lived experience at Cygnet.
Socialising day out
Our group of Cygnet carer network ambassadors continued to have a day out as we headed to Waterloo and examined some street art and talked relax at some cafes at Waterloo.
It is important that Cygnet not only help heal the community, but empower the community as we spoke to carer activist Ionie on how Cygnet can help carers continue their networking and reach more carers in the community. I will look forward to interviewing Ionie off my carer activist video series later on.
Welcome back to another blog post from carer activist Matthew McKenzie. I am involved in quite a few things to raise awareness of unpaid mental health carers. One of them is Carers Trusts Triangle of Care Framework.
Triangle of Care is a framework developed to improve collaboration between mental health services, service users (patients), and carers. It was created by the Carers Trust in the UK, focusing on involving carers (family members or friends who support individuals with mental health issues) in care and treatment decisions, while ensuring they receive the support and recognition they need.
We have many mental health trusts who are members of the Triangle of Care. One of them is Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust or AWP for short.
Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust (AWP) is the lead provider of healthcare for people with serious mental illness, learning disabilities and autism across Bath and North East Somerset (BaNES), Swindon and Wiltshire, and Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.
With support from Laura Sheridan who leads on carers at Cygnet. We both attended and supported the event at the mental health partnership trust. I took the time to explore the wonderful area of Bristol. Everyone I met was welcoming and friendly.
AWP have taken up the challenge to implement the Triangle of care and listen to carers. One of the best ways to listen to carers is through engagement and celebration events.
So on Thursday 3rd of October Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust (AWP) ran their #LetsHearCarers event. The event was held over at Somerdale Pavilion, Keynsham.
The day started off with a welcome from Sarah Jones, Director of Nursing and Quality at AWP.
We then got to hear from Ayesha Ahmed-Mendoza on the Black2Nature campaign to enable minorty ethnic children to have better access to nature camps. Next I was impressed with the presentation from Elaine Bennett regarding experiences of deaf carers.
Then we had the panel of carers giving their experiences of involvement at the NHS trust. I personally feel involvement of carers shaping services is a powerful way of allowing carers to have their say.
After the break, we got to hear from Debbie Hustings who is the new Triangle of Care lead for Carers Trust. Debbie used to be the former NHS England carers lead for London and has a wealth of experience when it comes to unpaid carers. Debbie presented on carers rights as she presented with her carers hat on. Next there was a comedy session from Angie Betcher who is a comedian at Bristol university, she is also skilled as a poet as well as a comedy performer.
Next was Lunch and workshops to cater for the wellbeing of carers who attended.
Have lunch I was up to read out 2 poems. One of the poems you can see from Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust’s video of the carer event below.
After more performances and networking with carers, I headed home. I would like to thank Avon and Whiltshire for the excellent event they put on for the community. Everything was planned brilliantly and I did not hear any grumbling from carers. I look forward to more events in future.
Welcome to another blog post off my carer and mental health website.
Caring for a loved one is a profoundly rewarding experience, but it can also be an incredibly challenging journey. The role often comes with feelings of isolation and overwhelming responsibility.
Fortunately, networking with fellow caregivers can make a significant difference in the lives of unpaid carers. Connectivity fosters emotional support, practical advice, resource sharing, community building, resilience, and even advocacy. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of networking for unpaid carers and how it can enrich their caregiving journey.
Video Version
To watch a brief video of the blog please view the video below
Emotional Support: You Are Not Alone
One of the most significant benefits of networking is emotional support. Caring for a loved one can often feel isolating, and the weight of responsibilities can be heavy. Connecting with other caregivers who truly understand your experiences can lighten this emotional load. Sharing your stories, challenges, and triumphs with those who “get it” provides comfort and a sense of belonging. Knowing you are not alone in this journey can significantly improve mental health and resilience.
Access to Practical Advice
Networking allows carers to exchange invaluable tips and strategies. Each caregiving situation is unique, but many challenges are universal. Experienced carers can offer practical advice on managing specific conditions, navigating healthcare systems, or handling day-to-day tasks. This shared knowledge acts as a collective wisdom pool, making the caregiving process more manageable for everyone involved.
Resource Sharing
In addition to practical advice, networking facilitates the sharing of resources. Information about local services, support groups, and community resources can be invaluable. Imagine having a treasure map that leads you to various forms of support tailored for carers—this is what resource sharing can achieve. These exchanges can lead to discovering programs, grants, respite care options, and other services that ease the caregiving burden.
Community Building
Establishing connections with other caregivers fosters a sense of community and belonging. In many ways, caregiving can be a lonely journey, but community building changes this narrative. Community groups provide a space where carers can interact and engage in meaningful conversations. For example, caregiver groups run locally can offer a support system where members can share experiences, support each other, and even socialize. Such communities act as pillars of strength for carers, reinforcing that they are part of a larger, caring network.
Enhancing Resilience Through Shared Strategies
Resilience is a necessary trait for carers. The demands of caregiving require constant adaptation and emotional strength. By networking, carers can learn effective coping strategies from one another. These shared strategies can empower carers, building their resilience and enhancing their ability to provide care. Learning from others’ experiences offers new insights and techniques, reinforcing the carer’s own skills and capacities.
Boosting Advocacy and Awareness
When caregivers come together, their collective voice becomes stronger. Networking can boost advocacy and awareness of the issues that matter most to carers. Advocacy can lead to policy changes, more resources, and greater recognition of the challenges faced by carers. Whether it’s campaigning for more support services or raising awareness about the realities of caregiving, a united front can make a substantial impact.
Amplifying Voices
Together, caregivers can amplify their voices to influence change. Advocacy efforts become more effective when carers unite. These collective efforts can bring about policy changes, increased funding for caregiving resources, and greater public awareness of the importance of supporting unpaid carers. By networking and working together, carers can drive systemic changes that benefit the entire caregiving community.
Tips for Building a Caregiving Network
Join or Form Caregiver Support Groups
Consider joining or forming caregiver support groups in your local community or online. These groups create a space for regular interactions, exchanges of advice, and mutual support. You might want to check out the carer forums I run off my website.
Attend Workshops and Conferences
Workshops, seminars, and conferences are excellent opportunities to meet other carers and professionals in the field. These events often provide both educational content and networking opportunities.
Utilize Social Media
Social media platforms can also serve as networking tools. Joining caregiver groups on platforms like Facebook or participating in Twitter chats can connect you with a broad community of caregivers worldwide.
Engage with Local Nonprofits and Organizations
Local nonprofits and organizations often have resources and networks specifically designed for carers. Engage with these entities to tap into their resources and support networks.
Leverage Online Forums
Online forums and communities, such as Reddit or specialized caregiving forums, allow for the exchange of advice, experiences, and support. These platforms can be especially beneficial for those who may not have access to local groups. I even utilise Whatsapp to provide a network for carers to connect.
Reach Out to Healthcare Providers
Healthcare providers often have connections to support groups and resources for carers. Don’t hesitate to ask your loved one’s doctor or nurse for referrals to local or online caregiver networks.
Create Personal Connection Lists
Keep a list of contacts that you can reach out to for different types of support. This can include other carers, healthcare professionals, and service providers. A well-maintained list can be a quick reference for resources and advice when needed.
Conclusion
Networking for unpaid carers is more than just a beneficial activity—it’s a necessary lifeline. Emotional support, practical advice, resource sharing, community building, resilience, and advocacy are some of the many advantages that come from connecting with fellow carers. By fostering these connections, carers can significantly enrich their caregiving experience and improve their well-being and the quality of care they provide. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Reach out, connect, and together, we can create a supportive and empowered caregiving community. Take care!
Welcome back to another blog poster from Matthew McKenzie, carer activist and a member of the Macmillan Cancer Community Network. I chair the National Cancer carer forum aimed at those caring for someone living with cancer.
if you struggle with caring for someone with cancer. As carers, we never want to see our loved ones struggle. But caring for someone with cancer can be incredibly frightening. It’s hard to be strong for them if you’re struggling too. That’s why it’s so important to identify yourself as a carer.
Feel free to watch the short carer awareness video I made below.
By registering at your doctor’s surgery, a carer centre, or a Macmillan Cancer Support group, you can access the support you need. Get the help you deserve. Remember, you’re not alone in this. By identifying yourself as a carer, you’re opening the door to resources, advice, and a community that understands what you’re going through.
You can also register for my online group, that runs the last Wednesday of the month.
Welcome back to a brief update of a carers event planned by carer Nadia Taylor (Chair of Carers Network) and myself with support from Cygnet and West London Health Trust. The event was held at Cygnet Harrow, over Harrow on the Hill. The event was called “West London Carers Event” and the theme focused on Carers Rights, carer engagement and carer stories.
As carers of those using or have used mental health services, we feel it is important to have our voices heard. As a cygnet network carer ambassador, I was delighted to have the chance to connect with carers and provide carer awareness to staff who worked at the hospital.
The event was prepared by Afifa Ghouri who is Cygnet’s Senior social worker. She provided a lot of support to the speakers and ushered the audience to learn from various topics.
I have been running a carer group with Afifa for the hospital. We want to reach out to families and carers whose loved ones use the services of Cygnet Harrow hospital.
It was not long we were up on stage to open the event.
We were joined by Dr Azmathulla Khan who is the Medical Director at Cygnet Harrow. It is important to have support of mental health professionals.
First to present was Gillian Kelly who I have known many years for my involvement at West London Health trust. Gillian supported the event, which was carer led and spoke about her story and the vision West London health trust has for unpaid carers.
Where after a few speeches, we then moved on to our first session of the event where Nadia talked about the important of Carer’s Rights and how the charity Carers Network supports carers.
Nadia is a Carer and also an activist and campaigns for unpaid Carers’ rights and recognition, as well as for the provision of the minimum living wage for unpaid carers. Nadia Taylor is the Chair of the Board of Trustees of Carers Network, supporting unpaid Carers in the London Boroughs of Hammersmith & Fulham, Kensington & Chelsea and Westminster.
Harrow Carers were up next also talking about carer’s rights, but also added how they support carers for the borough of Harrow.
If you remember, they did an excellent community event for Carer recognition awards, which I helped judge. You can see the video below.
It was great to see so many staff from Harrow carers support the event, even the CEO of Harrow Carers dropped by to observe the event and network.
From the images below, Simon Joshua presented on Carers rights.
We hope to see some partnership working with the carers centres in future. We then moved to lunch to network with other attendees.
We got to hear about what people thought of the event so far. It was great to get feedback as we plan to do more events i future. After Lunch we heard from Dr Rosalind Duhs who spoke to us about her Carers Journey regarding dementia. Although her talk was fairly short, I learned a lot from her.
Dr Rosalnd has Strong support from family, the Carers’ Network, Alzheimer’s Society Admiral Nurses, and the NHS have enabled her to do the best that she can for him. She a member of the Dementia Lived Experience Steering Group, Imperial College Care Research & Technology Centre.
We then had Giftie who spoke about her caring journey although she is not from the area, we welcomed giftie as she share the impact of her story. Giftie was also kind to read 2 poems out of my book. I could not do a better job. One of the poems Giftie read was called “Whats going on?” where the poem can be viewed below
Next up to speak was Malcolm Moore on the topic of carer mental wellbeing. Malcolm is an independent producer, consultant and trainer. Since unexpectedly becoming an unpaid family carer 12 years ago, he co-produced and co-facilitated the West London NHS Trust’s ‘Carer Awareness’ training for NHS staff and continues to sit on their Carers Council Board. Malcolm is a former spokesman for the Working for Carers programme led by the Carers Trust.
Malcolm gave an excellent lesson on the effects of caring regarding carer mental health. It is important carers are aware of the mental health and seek support when needed.
The event was closed by Laura who is cygnet’s carers lead. Laura explained about the work Cygnet is doing to engage with carers.
All in all, as carers who want to be heard, we are thankful for the support of Cygnet and West London health trust in helping to give carers a voice. We look forward to using our carers voice to connect with other carers.
Welcome back to a quick update from Carer activist, author and poet Matthew McKenzie. This update is from an event I performed at which was held over the Chestnut Community centre over at Haringey. The event was a spoken word event, which was part of Haringey Service User and Carer Forum.
A quick note is you can actually download poems and listen to songs if you scroll to the end of my update of the spoken word event.
The Haringey Service User and Carer Forum aims to provide a place for past and present service users and carers to learn about new developments and to provide feedback on services.
The forum provides an opportunity for people to discuss their experiences and to share views with staff so that their ideas can help to influence the way services operate. This meeting is organised by Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health Trust.
Barnet Enfield and Haringey Mental Health NHS Trust provides integrated mental health services in Barnet, Enfield and Haringey, and also provides community health services in Enfield. They look after people’s mental and physical health in hospitals or in the community, and provide a range of mental health services for young people and adults.
So for the 8th of July, I attended the spoken word event hosted by Martin Weegmann who is a Clinical Psychologist & Group Analyst at the mental health trust. We were joined by many who also performed, songs, spoken word, poetry and art.
Some of the art presented at the event, I managed to take some pictures. This was in order to help promote the work by Nicola Newman
You can view more of Nicola’s art at her Instagram page.
I was joined by Jo Lambert who does poetry to help express mental wellbeing, mental health experiences and also carer experiences. Jo and myself have a poetry circle to help promote carer awareness. You can watch our performance off my YouTube Channel.
We also heard excellent poems, songs and spoken word performed by others at the event. Obviously I could not record them, but I spoke to a few who loved to have their work shared off my blog site.
A number of songs were performed by Victoria Lamb who has her songs hosted off her soundcloud page, which is linked below.
I enjoyed being part of this excellent group that has a focus of community empowerment.
I often try attend the SU forum when I can as Barnet Enfield and Haringey Mental Health NHS Trust are supportive of my work engaging with carers. I look forward to the next spoken word event.
You can also check out many of the poetry from those with lived experience from the following book which can be viewed below.
A Caring Mind 