Caring in the Community event returns to provide support and networking for carers for second year
The UHDB Carers Staff Network is delighted to be hosting its second Caring in the Community event - providing carers and those they care for with an opportunity to meet and network with other carers and supporting organisations from across the Midlands.
Following a highly successful first event held in 2023, the Network will once more be hosting a free to attend event at the Hilton Hotel at St George's Park in Burton-upon-Trent on Friday 3 May from 9.30am until 3.30pm.
Members of the Carers Network, alongside other organisations supporting care givers, including Derbyshire Carers Association, Staffordshire Together for Carers, the Alzheimer's Society and many more, will be in attendance to provide support and guidance to attendees. It will also provide a great opportunity for carers and the persons they care for to meet others in a similar position and help them to expand their support network.
Rachel Kirby Deputy Lead of the UHDB Carers Network, expressed her delight at being able to once more host the event, and hopes that it will once more help to strengthen bonds of carers and organisations across the region.
She said: "As a carer myself, I know the importance of having information and support to help navigate you through the challenges that being a carer brings, which is the reason why I wanted to create this event.
"The initiative behind Caring in the Community is to unite unpaid carers and services from different counties under one roof, in the hope that we can break down geographical barriers, foster a sense of community and solidarity among carers, create a platform for shared experiences, resources, and support.
"This is not only to enhance the impact of the event, but to also contribute to building a stronger and more interconnected network for individuals dedicated to providing unpaid care in our communities."
A carer is someone who looks after a family member or friend who has an illness, Disability, or needs assistance with daily tasks. Carers play a vital role in enabling people to live their lives independently and help to ensure their health and care needs continue to be met without the need for hospital admissions.
Jemma Walker, Lead of the Carers Staff Network, is a Clinical Educator at UHDB, and is also a carer for her son. She has encouraged carers across the region to attend the event to help them access further resources and support to help them navigate the often-challenging world of being a carer.
Jemma explained: "When you are providing care for a loved one, there is so much to think about, and it can be very challenging and sometimes an overwhelming position to be in.
"There are so many wonderful organisations out there that can provide support on a range of topics including finances, support at home and with work, and so much more - but you sometimes don't know what is available to you.
"That is why I would encourage as many carers and people in their care to attend the event as possible, as it may open your eyes to the avenues available to you which can then make your role as a carer seem that bit easier."
Will Monaghan, Executive Chief Digital Information Officer and Executive Sponsor of the Carers Network, will be opening the event this year, and he praised the work of Network for the difference it continues to make on both colleagues at UHDB and carers across our communities.
He said: "At UHDB, we recognise the vital role of carers and are committed to supporting them in any way we can. Our Carers Network provides vital support to many of our colleagues who are also care givers, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued hard work.
"This event is another example of their work, and I am sure those in attendance will share my gratitude and feel more supported as a result of attending."
Event information
Venue: Hilton Hotel at St George's Park in Burton-upon-Trent
Date and time: Friday 3 May from 9.30am until 3.30pm
Further information: The event is free to attend, with free parking, and all are welcome. St George's Park is an accessible venue for all, and the beautiful grounds at the heart of the National Forest are free to roam for all in attendance who are able to do so.
Download an accessibility map of St Georges' Park [pdf] 15MB >
Free tea and coffee will be offered to guests, as well as a raffle being held which will help raise money for the Carers Network's future Caring in the Community Event.
There will be more than 30 charities and organisations in attendance providing information and support to attendees, as well as a live harpist playing throughout.
A new addition to the event this year is a therapy room offering complimentary treatments including Reiki, Indian head massage, reflexology, as well as a foot care specialist also in attendance.
Organisations that will be in attendance include:
- Derby and Burton Hospitals Charity
- Derbyshire Carers Association
- Nottingham Carers Association
- Universal Services for Carers in Derby
- Staffordshire Together for Carers
- North Staffs Carers
- Alzheimer's Society
- Autism Society
- Dementia Services
- Community Palliative Care
- Adult and Social Care: Welfare and Benefits
- Christians Against Poverty Charity
- Wealth Management
If you'd like to learn more about the event, please contact: rachel.kirby9@nhs.net or call 07598 791 492.