Caring for Carers
The St Wilfrid’s Living Well Centre team are excited to launch their new programme to help carers.
The new programme, as part of our Living Well Centre activities, is primarily to assist local carers aged 16+ (who are often family members) to offer the best possible support to their clients or family members who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness, as well as looking after themselves as a carer.
Where will the sessions take place?
The sessions will be delivered by the Living Well Centre team, and will include several St Wilfrid’s Nurses, when appropriate, and the physio team will also deliver some of the course content. The groups will be small, consisting of eight to ten carers, and will take place on Tuesday afternoons in the Bradbury Living Well Centre at St Wilfrid’s Hospice in Bosham.
The course will be on a continual cycle, so it’s not a problem if carers cannot attend every session. Individuals can catch up on course content they have missed in future rotations of the programme.
Self transport is preferred, however, we can organise volunteer transport where possible. This will be limited and will need to be organised well in advance, with a commitment to attend the session.
What will the programme cover?
- Resilience in caring – How to be resilient as a carer.
- Managing symptoms – Shortness of breath, fatigue management, weakness, and lack of energy.
- Nutrition – Nausea and vomiting, poot appetite/fluid intake, and oral health.
- Mobility – Assessment, exercise, physiotherapy and equipment.
- Managing pain – Understanding when and how to increase medication.
What will the programme cover?
- Financial support – Find out what support is available.
- Keeping informed – What changes to expect, recognising dying and what to do upon death of a client or family member.
- Skincare – What to look for, positioning, and pressure care equipment.
- Anxiety management – Dealing with anxiety for yourself and the patient.
- Falls – Practical advice on how to get up off the floor and telecare.
How can I book on to the programme?
If you would like to enquire about joining the programme, or would like any support, please get in touch with our Living Well Centre team. You can get in touch by calling the main Hospice reception line on 01243 775302 and ask to speak to our Living Well Centre team, or email general@stwh.co.uk.
