Upcoming events for carers in Merton: Carers First provide a range of fun and creative activities
Carers First host a series of events for carers in Merton, such as an Italian Renaissance drawing course, VR Active Reality, and yoga classes to support the mental health and wellbeing of carers.
These events have been shown to have a positive impact for the carers who have attended, helping them to feel “liberated, empowered and energised”.
The charity provides a range of support tailored to carer’s needs, from financial advice and support topics to wellbeing assessments and taking breaks. They also go the extra mile to ensure that carers have the opportunity to participate in fun, creative, and relaxing events and activities.
One carer who attended a Carers First event said: “It was great to be able to encourage and support each other, to feel brave and reassured with the support from other carers and giving that support to each other - even though we may have not met before. To experience something outside of our comfort zone and feel liberated, empowered, and energised.”
Another carer added: “It was a great opportunity to leave the house and forget about my caring role just for a couple of hours.”
Among the upcoming activities in Merton are an Italian Renaissance drawing course. Learn how to draw the human figure in this online course that celebrates the practice of life drawing, from the Renaissance to today. Each week, you’ll be introduced to a different aspect of figure drawing, from first steps to more developed approaches, to build new skills and gain confidence in making your own experiments.
In celebration of Young Carers Action Day, Carers First are inviting Young Carers for an exciting trip to Active Reality to do some VR experiences, generously funded by the Wimbledon Community Foundation.
There are also Yoga Sessions available. Make some time for you with a gentle flow of yoga, and learn how to calm your mind, focus your thoughts, and stretch your muscles.
Also available are monthly Carer Surgeries and a Coffee and Conversation group, to meet new carers, socialise and get support.
Avril Doyle, Carers First Service Manager for Merton, said: “Taking care of your own wellbeing is essential when you are in a caring role. Even though it may become difficult to keep up with it whilst carrying out your caring responsibilities, checking in with yourself is very important in ensuring you are okay.
“Sometimes we all need a little boost in the form of selfcare and getting out and socialising. So don't miss out on these great opportunities to relax, refresh, and have fun!”
Find out more about events in Merton here. To be able to attend these events, click here to register with Carers First.
If you are caring for someone and would like to find out what support Carers First’s groups can offer, please visit our website www.carersfirst.org.uk or call our helpline on 0300 303 1555 available in Medway, Lincolnshire, Essex, Southend-on-Sea and London Boroughs Hackney, Haringey, Waltham Forest, and Merton.
Carers First supports carers face to face in eight regions across the country and provides online support for carers anywhere. Your donations will help us support more carers.