SIPS for Carers – Peer group engagement event in Lewisham

On December 14th, a carer engagement peer event took place at Sydenham’s Ignition Brewery, creating a vibrant and inclusive space for unpaid carers in Lewisham to connect and share experiences. The event, which was carer-led, was hosted by Wendy, who is passionate about strengthening the network of support for carers in the borough. Wendy was joined by her son Jamie who as a young carer was awarded “Young Resident of the Year” in 2022 by Lewisham Homes.

The gathering named Sydenham’s Ignition Peer Support “SIPS FOR CARERS” provided an opportunity for carers to engage in meaningful conversations.

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The Reason to Include Carer Only Groups To Develop Mental Health Services

Welcome to another blog post by carer activist and ambassador Matthew McKenzie. I raise awareness of unpaid carers who support those with long term ill health. This time my blog focus is on the inclusion of carer only groups at mental health service development.

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Maintaining Family Bonds in Caregiving: Communication and Support

Here is another blog by Matthew McKenzie author of “Experiences of Mental Health unpaid caring”. This time I am covering a difficult and compex topic. Caring for someone and trying to maintain the family connection.

If you want to watch the detailed version of this blog, you can watch the video below.

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Lewisham Mental Health carer forum – November 2024 update

Welcome to a brief update of my Lewisham mental health carer forum aimed at those caring for someone living with mental illness.

The carer group discussed the importance of involving carers in the planning and improvement of services, with a focus on creating a carer family involvement network and improving carer information. They also addressed concerns about the lack of involvement of black carers in Council initiatives and the need for better communication and support for carers. The conversation ended with discussions on effective communication in caregiving for mental health, the importance of self-care for carers, and the need for professional help when communication breaks down.

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Southwark & Lambeth carer forum update November 2024

Welcome to a brief update of the carer forum for Southwark & Lambeth. The forum is facilitated by Matthew McKenzie, carer activist and author. The online carer led group runs once a month.

Here is a brief update for November 2024. However before continuing on to the blog, here is a quick update from Southwark Council and South East London ICS aimed at carers from Southwark.

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Coping After the Loss of a Loved One: Essential Tips for Carers

Grief affects us all at some point in our lives, but for unpaid carers who have dedicated their energy and resources to looking after someone with a long-term illness, the passing of their loved one carries a unique weight. This article by carer activist Matthew McKenzie delves into the ways unpaid carers can cope with this profound sense of loss, exploring the emotional depths of grief and offering practical advice on navigating these difficult waters.

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National Grief Awareness Week 2024

This blog post and video is by carer activist Matthew McKenzie doing his bit to raise awareness of grief and wellbeing.

To watch the 2 minute video please click below.

Understanding the Importance of National Grief Awareness Week 2024

Grief can be an overwhelming and isolating experience, touching all aspects of a person’s life. In recognition of this, the UK observes National Grief Awareness Week from December 2nd to December 8th each year.

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Tackling Cancer And Serious Mental Illness

Tackling Cancer Health Inequalities in Patients with Serious Mental Illness

Addressing health disparities, especially for patients with serious mental illness (SMI), is crucial in improving cancer treatment outcomes. This post by Matthew Mckenzie who facilitates the National cancer carer forum explores the multifaceted challenges faced by this vulnerable group and the necessary steps to tackle these inequalities.

To watch the video regarding Cancer and Serious Mental Illness, please click below.

Before continuing with the post, South East London Cancer Alliance. have just released their Cancer And Serious Mental Illness Information Resource. These have been co-created by SELCA, South London & Maudsley and the HIN, while working closely with people with lived experience of cancer and serious mental illnesses. You can visit and see the resources here: https://www.selca.nhs.uk/patients-and-carers/cancer-and-serious-mental-illness

The following sections might be of particular interest as they focus on cancer risks and screening.

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