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.
Another awareness video and blog by carer activist Matthew McKenzie. If you wish to watch the video. Please click below.
Understanding Addiction: Awareness and Recovery
Addiction is a powerful force affecting millions of lives around the globe. As we approach Addiction Awareness Week 2024, it’s essential to shine a spotlight on this critical issue, emphasizing that while addiction affects everyone, recovery is always possible.
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.
In this blog post, if you are involved at your local mental health NHS trust as a carer or patient. This blog will help you learn about the crucial roles of key staff in implementing the Patient Care Race Quality Framework in Mental Health Trusts.
From leadership to community engagement, discover how systematic changes can address racial disparities and promote accountability.
If you want to watch the video, this please click on the item below.
Mental health services play a crucial role in supporting individuals through challenging periods in their lives. However, despite their importance, these services have often fallen short when it comes to providing equitable care to individuals from minority backgrounds.
Hello all. Especially those who support someone with mental ill health. Treat someone with mental ill health or those who are interested in Carer’s Trust Triangle of Care. As an expert by experience regarding mental health unpaid care. I am delighted to be given the chance to chair these meetings, which I have been doing for around 2 years.
The meeting I chair is the national community group, which I try to run every 2 months and usually, I do not have the capacity to chair, organise and minute them, but now I have decided to attempt to update via my carers website. The main reason is to let carers know of the important themes that will affect them if caring for someone with mental ill health.
Topics covered for the ToC community meeting November 2024
The meeting covered various aspects of carer involvement in mental health care, including the Triangle of Care approach, challenges faced by carers, and the development of tools to improve communication between patients, clinicians, and carers. Discussions also focused on the Making Carers Count program presented by Carers Trust “Making Carers Count” programme lead Ben O’Hanlon, which aimed to support underrepresented carer groups.
Lastly we discussed the potential impacts of the new Mental Health Bill on carers. Concerns were raised about the implementation of the Mental Health Act reforms and their implications for carers, highlighting the need for better support and representation in the decision-making process.
Triangle of Care Update Meeting The meeting discussed promoting the Triangle of Care approach to involve families and unpaid carers in mental health care settings. Mary Patel, the new co-lead for Triangle of Care at Carers Trust, introduced herself and her background. A carer raised concerns that mental health services seem less willing now to genuinely listen to carers compared to when Triangle of Care was first launched.
We then had Marta, a researcher, who requested help from carers in London to complete a survey on shared decision-making in mental health that includes a carer version. The group then heard presentations from Alan Worthington on engaging carers in primary care and Karen on the Mental Health Act reform’s impact on carers.
Developing Patient-Clinician Carer Questionnaires In the meeting, Marta discussed the development of questionnaires for patients, clinicians, and carers to evaluate the effectiveness of conversations and identify discrepancies. She emphasized the importance of involving patients in treatment decisions and the need to make the questionnaires as succinct as possible while still capturing valuable information. A Carer raised concerns about the cultural aspects of the questionnaires and the need to address diversity issues. Another carer shared her experience as a carer lead at a mental health trust, highlighting the importance of co-producing carers questionnaires to gather valuable feedback.
Engagement and Support in Medical Practices Alan Worthington discussed the importance of engagement, involvement, and support in medical practices, particularly for carers. He emphasized the need for professionals to be prepared to talk to carers, share information, and break confidentiality. Alan also highlighted the significance of patient public involvement and feedback in improving the system. He shared his experience with a complaints book in his surgery, which became a valuable resource for patients to express their experiences. Alan also touched on the issue of support from medical staff, particularly doctors, and the need for special time with them. He concluded by discussing the impact of Covid-19 on carers and the need for self-help and monitoring.
Regular Health Monitoring With Alan Alan also discussed the importance of regularly checking weight and blood pressure, using a digital thermometer and blood pressure meter. He emphasized the significance of monitoring blood pressure, as it can be a lifesaver and help identify potential health issues. Alan also highlighted the importance of using a digital thermometer, as it provides quick and accurate readings. He further discussed the use of urine testing strips, which can help detect urinary tract infections. Alan concluded by emphasizing the importance of having a blood pressure meter, oximeter, and urine testing strips in one’s medical kit.
Covid-19 Risks and Carer Support Alan discussed the ongoing risks of Covid-19 and the importance of being vigilant. He also highlighted the potential benefits of certain painkillers and promoted their use by carers. Alan emphasized the need for carers to take charge of their situations and seek help when necessary. He also shared a personal experience caring regarding stroke and the importance of quick action. Alan suggested that the Carers Trust could share this information with unrecognized and unheard carers.
Making Carers Count Program Outcomes Ben discussed the Making Carers Count program, a three-year initiative aimed at supporting carers from underrepresented groups. A lot of the presentation was aimed at carer centre representatives, especially those involved in the “Making Carers Count” programme.
The program, which concluded earlier this year, focused on improving access to digital, online, and peer support. Ben highlighted the program’s positive outcomes, including improved reach, support, registration, and engagement for carers from these groups.
He also mentioned the publication of a final evaluation and five practical good practice guides based on the program’s key themes. These guides are intended to be accessible resources for organizations looking to improve their services for carers. Ben also mentioned the program’s legacy projects and the appointment of a new EDI lead at Carers Trust. Matthew McKenzie raised concerns about the program’s sustainability and the risk of losing the momentum and funding. Ben responded by emphasizing the importance of embedding the program’s work across the network and the potential for organic changes in practices.
Mental Health Bill Key Reforms Karen Machin discussed her passion for the Mental Health Bill, which has been in the works for a while. She highlighted the bill’s key reforms, including a higher bar for detention, stricter criteria for community treatment orders, and the establishment of a mental disorder within 28 days for detention. Karen also expressed concern about the support for family and friend carers in the bill, as well as the potential for a public discourse around risk. She encouraged everyone to read the full document of her presentation for more information.
Mental Health Act Changes Impact Carers Karen Machin presented on the changes to the Mental Health Act, focusing on the impact on carers. She expressed concerns about the potential decrease in the number of people detained, which could lead to increased responsibility for carers. Karen also highlighted the importance of considering the impact on carers’ mental health and the need for their voices to be heard in the decision-making process. She suggested that carers should contact their MPs to raise their queries or concerns and ensure their voices are represented. The group agreed that the changes of the Mental Health Act are welcomed, there will be significant implications for family carers and it is important that their input is crucial in shaping the future of mental health care.
UK Mental Health Act Reforms In this meeting segment, the key points discussed were concerns around the new Mental Health Act reforms in the UK. A carer shared her worrying experiences where her relative, who lacks insight into their mental illness, could potentially nominate an inappropriate person to make decisions on his behalf instead of his family carer. The group discussed how this law, while well-intentioned, fails to account for complex family situations and resource constraints in mental health services. There were also concerns about lack of funding for proper implementation of the reforms, and the need for better training and preparation for families and carers to understand their rights under the new law. The discussion highlighted the importance of mental health trusts and carer organizations being proactive in addressing these issues and advocating for the voices of carers to be heard.
I love being creative and finding inventive ways of promoting the carer journey and mental wellbeing. One of the best ways of expression is the use of art. I am not a brilliant artist, and to be honest I am more of a poet. Still, art therapy has come a long way into helping others find ways to.
I often find poetry and developing visual art as a calming and relaxing hobby. So I decided to create a video post on 10 ways art inspires psychological healing and self expression. This video is called “10 ways art inspires psychological healing and self expression”.
For those grappling with trauma or stress, art provides a non-verbal outlet to externalize complex feelings that may be difficult to articulate. For instance, painting or drawing allows individuals to symbolically represent their inner world, creating a sense of control and mastery over overwhelming emotions. Additionally, the act of creating art can promote mindfulness, grounding the person in the present moment and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Did you know that November the 23rd is International Survivors of Suicide Loss day 2024?
The day is a time dedicated to coming together, supporting one another, and finding healing after losing loved ones to suicide. Survivor Day is an annual event that provides a safe space for individuals to share their stories and connect with others who understand the deep pain of such loss. It’s a global day of remembrance filled with activities including speaker panels, film screenings, and group discussions, all often hosted by local organizations, mental health groups, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
To see the video that I use to raise awareness, please view the video below.
Losing someone to suicide is a profoundly painful and complex experience. Healing takes time and patience, but it’s crucial to remember that you are not alone on this journey.
Here are five ways to cope and find hope after such a devastating loss.
Allow Yourself to Grieve
Grief is a natural response to losing someone you love, and it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions such as anger, guilt, confusion, and sadness. Each person’s grief process is unique, and it’s important to allow yourself to experience and process these emotions without rushing. This process can be long and non-linear; some days will be harder than others, and that’s a normal part of healing.
Seek Support
Connecting with friends, family members, or trusted individuals who can offer comfort and understanding is essential. Expressing your feelings and sharing memories of your loved one with those who care about you provides both relief and a sense of connection. Additionally, joining a support group, whether in person or online, through organizations like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention can be incredibly beneficial. These groups provide a community of individuals who have experienced similar pain and can offer empathy and support.
Educate Yourself
Understanding mental health and the factors that lead to suicide can aid in making sense of your feelings and help reduce self-blame. It’s important to remember that mental health struggles are complex and multifaceted, and the loss of a loved one to suicide is not your fault.
Create Rituals of Remembrance
Remembering and celebrating the life of your loved one is a powerful way to cope with loss. This can be done by sharing stories, creating a memory book, planting a tree, or participating in activities they loved. Engaging in awareness events such as walks, vigils, or fundraisers in their memory can also be incredibly meaningful. These rituals provide a way to honor their memory and create a lasting legacy.
Practice Self-Care
Grieving is both physically and emotionally exhausting. Taking care of your own needs is integral to your healing process. Ensure you’re eating well, resting, and engaging in activities that bring you peace. Setting boundaries and taking breaks from conversations or situations that feel overwhelming is also essential. Be patient with yourself during this time; healing is not a straightforward process, and it’s okay to have good and bad days.
Finding Hope and Healing
On this Survivor Day, it’s important to remember that healing is possible and that hope is within reach. Together, we can find strength and comfort in our shared experiences. If you need more resources or support, please utilize the links provided in the description below. Stay connected, stay hopeful, and take care.
Survivor Day reminds us that while the journey after losing a loved one to suicide is incredibly difficult, there is a community ready to support and understand. Engaging in commemorative activities and reaching out for support are powerful steps towards healing. Always remember, you are not alone.
Welcome to another blog post by carer activist Matthew McKenzie. As a carer of someone with mental ill health, I was often interested into what affect the mind and how this can affect the human condition. It is only a matter of time before I start promoting awareness of mental health and the mind.
Insights into the mind and the human condition have fascinated thinkers, scientists, and artists for centuries, offering profound perspectives on how humans perceive, feel, and navigate the world. The mind, as the seat of consciousness, emotion, and reason, shapes our reality, influencing behavior and decision-making.
Studies in psychology, neuroscience, and philosophy reveal that the human mind is both rational and irrational, a duality that drives creativity, problem-solving, and self-awareness, but also fear, bias, and emotional conflict.
I have made a Top Ten video looking into the insights of the Mind and the impact on the Human condition.
By exploring the mind’s processes—like memory, cognition, and emotion—we gain a better understanding of what motivates people, how people respond to challenges, and how they relate to others.
This exploration reveals that while individuals are unique, shared experiences such as love, loss, and the search for meaning connect us all, forming the foundation of the human condition.
Welcome to another blog post by carer activist and author Matthew McKenzie. This time I thought to do a short blog about something that often intrigues me.
How art can reflect mental health or mental illness. I have done a video of Top 20 artworks about mental illness.
If you want to check out the video, please check below.
The video provides information about the artwork and artist on how mental illness inspired the work.
Welcome to another blog post from Carer activist Matthew McKenzie. THis is a blog post I always wanted to do, since for many years I been running carer groups. If you want to watch the in-depth version regarding carer peer groups, you can watch the hour long video below.
In this blog post, you can explore the diverse landscape of caregiver peer support groups, focusing on building resilience, skill-sharing, and overcoming stigma. You can also discover how these groups provide a safe space for growth, learning, and healing through shared experiences.
Understanding Carer Peer Groups
Carer peer groups are an essential, yet often misunderstood aspect of caregiving. Despite their complexities, they offer a lifeline to many caregivers, providing much-needed support, understanding, and personal growth opportunities. These groups are not just spaces for venting or sharing the challenges of caregiving; they serve a multitude of functions aimed at enhancing the lives of caregivers.
What Are Carer Peer Groups?
At their core, carer peer groups are a collection of individuals, typically caregivers, who share common characteristics and experiences. They come together with specific interests, interact in ways that foster support, understanding, and personal growth. These groups are more than just social gatherings; they are structured environments where caregivers can develop resilience, accountability, and coping skills.
The Importance of Emotional Support
Building Emotional Resilience
One of the primary functions of care peer groups is providing emotional support. Caring for a loved one can be isolating and emotionally draining. Groups focused on emotional support aim to reduce this isolation and help caregivers build coping skills. These groups facilitate a space where caregivers can explore their emotions, such as trauma, anxiety, isolation, depression, and anger. By doing so, they help mitigate the risks of developing mental health issues.
Encouraging Personal Growth
Emotional support groups go beyond mere conversation. They encourage self-discovery and growth, helping caregivers reduce the stigma associated with their role. These groups work to build a sense of community, providing a platform for storytelling and healing. The goal is to turn emotional struggles into opportunities for growth and resilience.
Mutual Aid and Resource Sharing
Collaborative Problem Solving
Another critical type of carer peer group is the mutual aid carer group. These groups are all about collective action and shared responsibility. Caregivers come together to offer advice, support, and understanding based on their shared experiences. They advocate for social change and share resources, knowledge, and skills to better manage their caregiving duties.
Developing Lifelong Skills
Resource-sharing carer groups focus on maximizing the use of resources and skills among caregivers. These groups encourage practical support, such as helping with everyday tasks, and foster a culture of giving and gratitude. By doing so, they help create strong, supportive networks that caregivers can rely on.
The Role of Accountability
Creating a Culture of Accountability
Accountability is a crucial element in many carer peer groups. These groups ensure that caregivers remain motivated and responsible in pursuing their personal and professional goals. They offer consistent check-ins and progress reviews, helping caregivers stay focused and committed.
Encouraging Empathy and Understanding
Accountability groups also emphasize the importance of empathy and understanding. By fostering a non-judgmental environment, these groups help caregivers build compassionate connections and develop deep listening skills. This creates a supportive space where caregivers can feel safe expressing their thoughts and feelings.
Promoting Empathy and Safe Spaces
Safe and Non-Judgmental Environments
Creating a safe, non-judgmental space for caregivers is essential. These groups provide an environment where individuals can freely express themselves without fear of criticism or harm. The focus is on healing and recovery, reducing isolation, and promoting self-compassion.
Enhancing Communication Skills
Such groups put a high priority on confidentiality and empathy, which are vital for building trust among members. They work to improve communication and interpersonal skills, helping caregivers better navigate their caregiving roles and manage conflict within their relationships.
Empowering Caregivers
Building Confidence and Resilience
Caregiver empowerment groups focus on fostering a sense of control and belonging among caregivers. They promote resilience and encourage caregivers to overcome obstacles. These groups help build strong social networks and challenge social norms, providing tools and resources for skill development.
Encouraging Personal Development
These groups often serve as networks of encouragement, where members motivate each other to achieve their goals. They focus on building confidence, self-belief, and resilience through peer mentorship and role modeling. This helps caregivers take on leadership roles and further their personal development.
Specialized Carer Groups
Alternative Therapy and Recovery
Some carer peer groups focus on alternative therapies, providing non-professional and voluntary alternatives to traditional therapy. These groups might use methods such as art therapy, mindfulness practices, or peer coaching. They aim to enhance communication skills and offer a space for healing through creative expression.
Problem Solving and Growth
Problem-solving care groups help caregivers brainstorm solutions to common challenges using shared experiences. They encourage critical thinking and offer emotional and motivational support. These groups also focus on resilience building, helping caregivers develop emotional agility and self-awareness.
Conclusion
Carer peer groups play a vital role in supporting caregivers. They offer emotional support, facilitate resource sharing, promote accountability, create safe spaces, empower individuals, and provide specialized support. These groups are complex and require significant effort to establish and maintain. However, their benefits far outweigh the challenges. By participating in care peer groups, caregivers can find the support, understanding, and personal growth they need to continue their vital roles.
Despite their complexities, carer peer groups are essential in fostering a supportive environment for caregivers. They provide the tools and resources necessary for caregivers to thrive, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of care provided to their loved ones. As the demand for caregiving continues to grow, the importance of these groups cannot be overstated.
A Caring Mind 