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.
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.
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.
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.
Blog by Matthew McKenzie aimed at unpaid carers whose cared for will soon be discharged from hospital. Here are some tips to take note of to help in smooth transistion back into the community.
To watch the video lecture nearly 30 mins, see below.
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.
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.
Welcome back to another Carer Champion interview. Carers play an essential role in our society, often operating behind the scenes and without pay. In this interview, we meet Maz, a volunteer with Carers UK, who sheds light on the nature of unpaid care work, the challenges carers face, and the significant support networks available for them. Let’s dive into her invaluable insights.
To watch the video, please click play on the video below.
The Hidden Army of Carers
Maz describes unpaid carers as a “hidden army” that tirelessly provides care for loved ones, often without much recognition or support. Unlike professional care workers who are trained and compensated for their services, unpaid carers usually step into the role out of necessity and affection for those they care for. Maz herself is an example of a “sandwich carer,” a term used for someone who cares for both their elderly parents and their adult children.
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.
Supporting unpaid carers is a greatly unrecognized yet profoundly impactful endeavor. In our latest interview from a series dedicated to highlighting those who go out of their way to aid and uplift unpaid carers, Matthew McKenzie had the opportunity to speak with Ionie Hughes.
Ionie talked about how she tries to reach parent carers through her charity, Socialising Angels, which is a C.I.C that was created to help reduce isolation, which focuses to help young adults with social, emotional and mental health needs.
You can watch the full interview below.
Drawing from her personal experiences and relentless advocacy, Ionie provides invaluable insight into the unique challenges and necessities of unpaid carers. Below, we delve into Ionie’s story, her organization, and the far-reaching influence of her work.
Training and Positive Influence
Ionie is trained in Rational Emotional Behavior Therapy, reinforcing her belief that altering one’s mindset and belief systems is crucial for overcoming challenges. She emphasizes positive thinking and speech, offering powerful encouragement and practical advice to other carers. Her ability to balance personal experience with professional training enhances her effectiveness as a support figure.
Socializing Angels: A Community Endeavor
About the Organization
Socializing Angels CIC, founded by Ionie in 2022 and operational since 2023, is based in Brixton. The organization aims to bring young adults with various disabilities into the community, providing them with social engagement opportunities. This initiative not only enriches the lives of the young adults but also offers respite to their parent carers.
Challenges of Running a Non-Profit
Running a community interest company like Socializing Angels comes with its own set of challenges. As the CEO, Ionie juggles multiple responsibilities without financial compensation, as most of the organization’s funds are directed toward service provision. The startup phase of the CIC is heavily reliant on external funding and the dedication of its founder.
Ionie’s work extends beyond service provision for her own son to advocating for and supporting other young adults and their families. This dual role often leads to overwhelming exhaustion and the risk of burnout. However, her steadfast commitment to both her son and her organization underscores the dedication and resilience inherent to unpaid carers.
The Unseen Challenges of Unpaid Carers
Daily Struggles and Lack of Recognition
Unpaid carers perform a plethora of tasks around the clock, often without recognition or financial remuneration. Their roles are multifaceted, ranging from advocacy to personal assistance and emotional support.
Ionie points out that unpaid carers frequently experience burnout due to the nonstop nature of their responsibilities. The mental toll of continually advocating and caring for a loved one, compounded by the financial strain of a cost-of-living crisis, is immense.
Integrity and Unwavering Commitment
Despite these challenges, the integrity and love that motivate unpaid carers are evident. They dedicate themselves selflessly to the welfare of others, driven by an unwavering commitment to their loved ones. This spirit of selflessness is emblematic of the unpaid carer community.
Essential Skills for Carer Outreach
Knowledge of Community Resources
For carers seeking to make a difference, understanding the community landscape is crucial. This involves attending meetings, forums, and various community events to stay informed and engaged. Personal interactions and shared experiences are key elements in creating a supportive network.
Empathy, Compassion, and Understanding
Ionie highlights the importance of empathy, compassion, and active listening in supporting fellow carers. Building a rapport and a community based on mutual understanding and shared experiences can provide both practical support and emotional solace.
Personal Experience and Advocacy
Personal experience is a powerful tool in advocacy. Ionie’s own journey has been instrumental in shaping her ability to help others. By sharing her story and the strategies that have worked for her, she provides a valuable blueprint for other carers seeking guidance and support.
Conclusion
Ionie Hughes’ journey and dedication shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked world of unpaid carers. Her relentless advocacy, personal sacrifices, and the establishment of Socializing Angels CIC stand as a testament to the incredible impact one person can have in making the world a more inclusive and supportive place.
Through recognizing and addressing the challenges faced by unpaid carers, we can begin to create a more understanding and supportive environment. It is imperative to appreciate and uplift those who selflessly dedicate their lives to the care of others, often without any form of compensation or recognition. Ionie’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience that define the carer community.
A Caring Mind 