Carers MK spring 2014

The newsletter of Carers Milton Keynes

Summer 2014

Summer Celebration Changes to Adult Carers’ Services

Dedicated to supporting carers

Carers’ WEEK www.carersmiltonkeynes.org

www.carersmiltonkeynes.org

Meet the Team...

Chief Executive Stephen Archibald

Finance Manager Kirstie O'Sullivan Adult Services Sue Bowering Anne Matthews Debbie Baxter Sue Sullivan Christine Straughan Parent Participation Rachael Sherratt-Smith

Foreword from the

Chief Executive I would like to thank everyone who gave us such positive feedback on the new design of our Carers News, we are really pleased that you like it as much as we do! We at Carers MK always welcome feedback and it is important that we know what carers want and need from us. The new services we will be offering to carers under our contract with Milton Keynes Council have been developed in response to the needs of carers – I have written in more detail about these on page 4..

With summer almost here Carers’ Week is looming (9th -15th June). This is a national celebration of carers and the vital role they play in our society.

Locally we have a full programme of groups, training and events to mark Carers’ Week – more details can be found on page 12 and our website.

Stephen Archibald Chief Executive Carers MK and Carers Bucks Stephen.archibald@carersbucks.org

Young Carers’ Team Sally Mansi Debbie Norton Caroline Roxburgh Helen Galvin Volunteer Drivers Heena Triveda Community Fundraiser Clare Lowe

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Editor Connie Sharp Telephone: 0300 777 2722 Email: connie.sharp@ carersbucks.org Acorn House, 375 Midsummer Boulevard, Central Milton Keynes MK9 3HP Tel: 01908 231703 Email: mail@ carersmiltonkeynes.org Reg charity no 1116804; Company number 05577393 Advertising Jo Marchant Telephone: 01536 526674 Published: Lance Publishing Ltd Telephone: 01536 521126 www.lancepublishing.co.uk Printed: Lance Print Ltd Telephone: 01480 492183 www.lanceprint.co.uk

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Contents

Supported by

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Social Events

12

Carers’ Stories

06

Update on Services

15

Parent Carers

08

Money Matters

16

Fundraising & Events

10

Services & Information

18

Support Groups

Summer 2014

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SOCIAL EVENTS Book Club

Do you enjoy a good read? Then come along to our book club and join in the lively conversation and discussion about the book you have just read (books are provided by the book club).

Tuesdays – 3rd June, 1st July, 4th August, 2nd September 2.30pm – 4pm

Men’s Group

Male carers are welcome to attend to this social group which meets at regular intervals at the Barn Beefeater in Central Milton Keynes.

Mondays – 16th June, 21st July, 18th August, 15th September from 7pm onwards

Singing

Come and join our singing group for some fun and experience a sense of wellbeing that singing can bring.

All you need is enthusiasm!

Fridays - 4th July, 12th September 1- 2pm

Writing Group

This small group meets in a friendly and supportive environment to explore written styles and to encourage each other’s skills. See page 12 for poetry written by carers.

Tuesdays - 10th June, 8th July, 12th August, 9th September 10.30am – 12pm May 10am - 11.30am

Gardening

Frosts Garden Centre continues to host our quarterly gardening information sessions. Topics are relevant to the season.

Wednesdays - 4th June, 3rd September 10am– 12pm

Decoupage

We are grateful to Hobbycraft in Patriot Drive, Rooksley for hosting this craft session for us - a chance to be really creative and learn a new skill.

Tuesday 29th April 10.30am - 12.30pm

Carers’ Week

Don’t forget it’s Carers Week 9th -15th June – check our website for details of what’s happening.

Pottery Painting

We are making a welcome return to Chikki Ceramiki on Oxley Park for this session.

We will give you £5 towards the item of pottery you wish to paint (please note you will need to pay for any costs over this).

This is a fun, relaxing session.

Thursday 10th July 10.30am – 12.30pm

Summer Celebration Sunday 8th June 1-4pm at Heron’s Lodge, Loughton.

See page 16 for details.

Foraging

The Parks Trust is our guide for a gentle stroll along the old railway line on the edge of Great Linford while finding out about foods that are available naturally and safely.

We will meet at Stonepit field.

Tuesday 9th September 10.30am – 12.30pm

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2014 June 2014

9th to

15th Fri

20

th

Carers’ Week

Words and Music event

More details in our next magazine.

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Summer 2014

www.carersmiltonkeynes.org Please note : Access to some training may depend upon the support you are currently receiving from Carers MK. Please contact our offices on 01908 231703 for further information.

Unless otherwise stated all training sessions take place at our offices in Acorn House, Midsummer Boulevard.

TRAINING Relaxation Techniques

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he session covers techniques on how to relax and find some ‘peace’ within our busy and stressful lives. It includes some stretching to help relax the body, ways of using the breath to slow the body down and tune into what our body is doing, and emptying the mind space and allowing us to find some ‘me’ time.

Monday 9th June 10.30am – 12pm

‘

Really enjoyed the session and will try to put into practice’

Parkinson’s Awareness

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his awareness training, delivered

by Parkinson’s UK, will provide carers with an overview of what Parkinson’s is, how it develops and affects the brain and body. Parkinson’s and neurological challenges, such as dementia, depression, low mood and decision making, are also covered. It will also look at the support that Parkinson’s UK can offer and current research into the condition.

Wednesday 11th June 10am – 12pm

Managing Stress

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earn how to identify sources of stress and ways to manage it.

Explore ways of avoiding unnecessary stress by learning to say ‘no’, taking control of your environment, avoiding the ‘hot’ topics, setting realistic goals, focusing on the positive and learning to forgive.

Tuesday 24th June 10am – 12pm; Tuesday 22nd July 10am – 12pm; Tuesday 9th Sept 10am – 12pm ‘I found it enlightening and enjoyed the interaction with other carers’

First Aid Awareness Training Course

Autism Awareness

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This course covers how to deal with: his is for anyone who wants to know • an unconscious adult or child what it’s like living with autism.

• a person who is choking – including Milton Keynes Autism Trainers, who are the technique for dealing with wheel on the autistic spectrum themselves, chair users will be delivering this session.

• a major bleed Tuesday 15th July 10.30am • seizures/convulsions – 12pm at Acorn House • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Thursdays - 26th June 10am – 12.30pm; 31st July 1.30pm – 4pm; 4th September 10am – 12.30pm This course is being delivered

by Guardian – see details of location below.

‘Great to take time to reinforce the need to look after ourselves’

Manual Handling (Back Care)

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his session will cover the compulsory elements of care plans and communication with the patient, ‘Power Posture’ and a practical exercise. The rest of the course will be tailored to the needs of the participants and can cover, for example, sitting to standing/standing to sitting, walking with a frame or stick, assisted walking, equipment such as slide sheets, turning seats, glide cushions etc.

26th June 1.30pm – 4pm; 31st July 10am – 12.30pm; 4th September 1.30 – 4.00pm Both of the above courses will be delivered by Guardian at their venue - 2nd Floor, De Vere Harben, Tickford Street, Newport Pagnell, Milton Keynes MK16 9EY.

Falls Awareness

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he Falls Prevention Co-ordinator is delivering this course which will cover an awareness of falls risks, what can be done to reduce these risks and an awareness of bone health. The course hopes to cover some of the challenges that individual carers have faced and ideas to reduce their impact. Wednesday 10th September. 10.30am – 12pm

Nurture Training Programme for Parent Carers

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re you parent or carer with children under 16, looking to learn about positive parenting? Come along to this award-winning, free and confidential SEN Nurture Programme, designed to give you tips about discipline and improve your social and emotional skills. The SEN Nurturing Programme is specifically for parent of children with Special Educational Needs. It provides simple, effective tools to help you and your children understand and manage feelings and behaviour This is a 10 week course delivered

by MK Dons Sports and Education Trust starting Tuesday 16th September 9.30am – 11.30am (excluding half term) at Acorn House.

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NEWS FROM CARERS MK

Changes to Adult Carers’ Services nder our new contract with under the universal service as well U Milton Keynes Council there will as: be some changes to the way we time limited 1-1 support, emotional deliver support to carers. We will be working more closely with the Council and Carers MK will also be discharging some of the Council’s obligations to carers. The aim is that there will be less duplication and that more carers will receive support.

There are now two levels of service: 1) Universal Service Carers referred to Carers MK will be contacted by a Support Worker, who will talk to them about their caring role and how it is affecting their wellbeing.

Support offered will include: advice and guidance, health promotion advice, information about our drop-in support services, our online services and referral on to relevant organisations eg the Alzheimer’s Society or Age UK where appropriate. The carer will then be sent an information pack which will be tailored to their particular circumstances.

If necessary the carer will be contacted again after a few weeks to see whether any additional support is needed. All carers will be sent our newsletter three times a year, if they want it, which will keep them up to date about services available to them and developments relevant to their caring role.

While talking to carers our Support Workers will assess whether they would benefit from the enhanced service because their caring role is having a significant, negative impact on their wellbeing. If this is the case we will recommend that the carer gives us permission to refer them for a Carers’ Assessment by the Council. It is through a Carers’ Assessment that carers will usually access the enhanced service from Carers MK; they may also receive additional services paid for by the Council.

2) Enhanced Service This includes everything available

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support, referral into services such as counselling, training in relation to caring role, access to support groups/drop in services, help with managing stress and balancing caring responsibilities, emergency planning support, peer and befriending support, help with long term planning and activities and events.

The Council’s procedure for a Carers’ Assessment • A carer can be offered an assessment of their needs irrespective of whether the person they care for has received a community care assessment.

• Carers can be referred for a Carers’ Assessment if this is requested by the carer and on the appearance of need, irrespective of the amount of hours of care they provide and their financial situation.

• For carers offered an enhanced service permission will be sought to share their assessment details with Carers MK. • The completed Carers’ Assessment and any other personal details about the carer will be sent to Carers MK (with carer’s permission), using encryption software.

Urgent care, carers’ assessment and enhanced services An enhanced service can be provided prior to a carers’ assessment if : • A Carers’ Assessment has been recommended and explained by Carers MK • The carer refuses to have an assessment • Carers MK considers that the carer is in urgent need of an enhanced service In this situation, if the carer agrees, basic details of name, address, GP and date of birth will be sent to Adult Social Care for them to enter onto their system to indicate that Carers MK are involved with this person. The carer may agree to an assessment at a more appropriate time.

Welcome to ....

Straughan who has joined Christine our Adult Carer Support Team.

Visit Our New Website Visit our new and improved website at www.carersmiltonkeynes.org where you will find details about forthcoming events and activities, including our Carers’ week schedule, together with lots of useful information to help you in your caring role. Don’t forget to let us know what you think of it.

Consultation Event

Tuesday 10th June 11am – 2pm - Acorn House reception foyer We are holding an event during Carers’ Week to highlight some of the community services we work very closely with and give local carers an opportunity to understand the draft Carers’ Strategy and feed into the consultation.

www.carersmiltonkeynes.org

NEWS FROM YOUNG CARERS MK

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oung Carers have had an extremely busy year already!

We kicked off January in style with our first ever Young Carers’ Art Exhibition. We had a fantastic opening night where local artist and former young carer Peter Keegan came to open the exhibition along with the Mayor, Brian White.

Young carers were able to display plenty of different pieces of art, from dragons and sharks to more abstract and colourful pieces. All the art on display was created by the young carers themselves and a few young carers even stayed up pass their bedtime to talk through their pieces with the Mayor and local officials!

February half term ‘rocked’ on with the crazy climb experiences at Big Rock, Kingston. 20 young carers were able to face fears and test their agility by climbing to the very top of

the various (and very high) climbing walls, taking on new challenges with every wall.

Vroom! Blink and you would have missed them! We were lucky enough to speed off with 20 young carers go-karting at Daytona. They all had a great time and didn’t let the rain dampen the mood. The racing got very close at times and they pulled off some fantastic and daring moves that had us peeking through our fingers!

We have had a fantastic swimming party at Bletchley Leisure Centre where 30 young carers enjoyed games and challenges in the water.

We took to the skies at Aerial Extreme this Easter where young carers took on different obstacles to get around the high ropes course including zip wires and ‘the jump’ – a 13 metre leap of faith which is not for the faint hearted!!

Vroom! Blink and you would have missed them!

We are very lucky to have received some funding from local charity Kids in Sport. This has meant we have been able to provide some wonderful sporting activities which have been thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.

For the more arty young carers we had a workshop at community arts charity, Interaction MK at Peartree Bridge to create a recycled mural which will be displayed as part of the Revive festival at Interaction on Saturday 26th April.

And finally, we have been extremely lucky that this year Young Carers MK have been picked for the Bletchley Carnival chosen charity. The theme is ‘At the Moves’ so keep your eyes peeled for us come June.

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MONEY MATTERS

Caring and Your Pension

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e are often asked by carers of pension age if they are eligible to claim Carers’ Allowance. If you are claiming your basic State Pension you can’t usually be paid Carer’s Allowance. However you may still be able to get some extra money in recognition of your caring role.

Carer’s Allowance, it can be topped up to the level of Carer’s Allowance (currently £61.35 a week) – so it may still be worth claiming. Even if your basic State Pension is more than the level of Carer’s Allowance, it may still be worth making a claim as it can act as a gateway to other financial support.

State Pension and Carer’s Allowance are classed as ‘overlapping’ benefits.

This means that, essentially, they are classed by government as the same thing - a payment in lieu of paid work - so you cannot get both.

Examples of when it might be worth claiming Carer’s Allowance as a pensioner: • if you are already getting an income-related/means tested benefit, such as Pension Credit, you may be paid more of it.

• even if you were recently refused an income-related/means tested

However if you are caring and your basic State Pension is less than

Benefits Rates April 2014

Carers Allowance £61.35 per week Attendance Allowance £54.45 per week lower rate / £81.30 per week higher rate PIP between £21.55 and £138.55 per week DLA : Care component: Low £21.55 per week Middle £54.45 per week High £81.30 per week Mobility component: Low £21.55 per week High £56.75 per week

benefit it may be worthwhile checking if you would be entitled once you have claimed Carer’s Allowance.

The rules are quite complicated but if you’re not sure what to do ring Carers MK and we can get you some advice.

Benefits for pensioner carers on low incomes Pension Credit with Carer Addition Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for people aged 60 or over on a low income. As the age for claiming a state pension is changing the exact age when you qualify will vary depending on your ‘qualifying age’. This can be checked on the state pension age timetable at www.gov.uk Pension Credit has two parts: Guarantee Credit tops up your weekly income if it’s below £148.35 for single people or £226.50 for couples and can be claimed by people over the ‘qualifying age’. If you are under the ‘qualifying age’, but your partner is of the ‘qualifying age’, your partner can claim it for both of you. Your income and savings will affect the amount you get.

Savings Credit rewards people who have a second pension or modest savings. It is paid to you

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Summer 2014

if you or your partner are 65 or over, but again your income and savings will affect the amount you get.

When working out how much you are entitled to, the Pension Service will allocate you an extra amount if you are a carer. This is called the Carer Addition.

Housing Benefit You may get Housing Benefit to help towards the cost of your rent if: • you pay rent • you’re on a low income or claiming benefits • your savings are below a certain level - usually £16,000 How much you get depends on your income and circumstances.

For more details visit www.milton-keynes.gov.uk and click on Benefits and Council tax or contact them on 01908 691691 Council Tax Reduction

You can apply to your council to get money off your Council Tax bill if you’re on a low income or claiming benefits. You can apply whether you own your home, rent, are unemployed or working.

You may get a reduction depending on: • where you live – each council runs its own scheme • your circumstances (eg income, number of children) • your household income - this includes things like savings, pen sion, your partner’s income • if your children live with you • if other adults live with you, eg if you live on your own you can get a 25% reduction; if someone in the household is severely mentally impaired you may get a 25% reduction.

For more details visit www.milton-keynes.gov.uk and click on Benefits and Council tax or contact them on 01908 691691

Free Nutrition Resources For Carers

Services mentioned in this newsletter do not constitute a recommendation

by Carers MK

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arers UK has produced a range of free information booklets for carers on looking after the health and nutrition of themselves and the person they care for. They cover: • The importance of eating well for carers • Eating well and dementia • The role of good nutrition when caring for someone The booklets are available free as downloads or printed copies - visit the Carers UK website at www.carersuk.org/help-andadvice/care-with-nutrition or call 0808 808 7777.

SERVICES & INFORMATION Macular Society – Milton Keynes Group

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he Macular Society runs a group for anyone affected by central vision loss due to macular conditions, together with their relations, carers and friends. They offer both practical and emotional support to people from others with the same problems, and also try to raise awareness of these conditions to the wider public.

related topics as well as some of more general interest, social meetings with tea, cake, games or a quiz, but at each one there is always time for general discussion and an exchange of ideas and experiences.

The monthly meetings are varied, with invited speakers on eye

For further information please contact Maggie on 01908 319 292

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The group meets on the second Tuesday of the month, 2pm - 4pm at Centrecom Meeting Place, (behind MK Library) in Central Milton Keynes.

Your Voice Counts

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very voice does count when it comes to shaping local health and social care services.

Healthwatch Milton Keynes is the independent consumer champion in health and social care and it is their job to find out what people like and dislike about these services and offer as many ways as possible to get involved in improving them. They are keen to hear your experiences of health and social care (these can be given anonymously if you wish).

Visit their website at www. healthwatchmiltonkeynes. co.uk; telephone 01908 266696, or write to FREEPOST ANG7596, 6 Burners Lane, Kiln Farm, Milton Keynes MK11 3HB.

www.carersmiltonkeynes.org

What is Reiki?

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eiki treatments can help the body emotionally or spiritually. It encourages balance and harmony through the giving of energy. The recipient remains clothed and lies on a couch or chair. The practitioner places their hands in a series of non-intrusive positions near the body and may induce feelings of calm and a sense of well-being.

Individual responses may vary but most people report a feeling of relaxation and peace.

We are fortunate to have a Reiki therapist volunteer for us – If you would like to make an appointment to see her please contact Carers MK. All sessions are at Acorn House.

New Advocacy Service for MK

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OhWER is the new advocacy provider in Milton Keynes, taking over the role of People’s Voices. They provide general advocacy to people with social care needs or who are vulnerable, young people in Transitions and carers. They also provide Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy (IMCA), Independent Mental Health Act Advocacy (IMHA) and Independent NHS Complaints Advocacy.

Contact POhWER on 0300 200 0084 (calls charges at local rate); email pohwer@pohwer.net or visit www.pohwer.net

Have You Ever Considered Volunteering?

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arers MK is setting up an exciting new carer befriending service and we need volunteers to help us do this.

Can you drive?

Do you have some spare time?

Do you like listening and talking to people?

If so, we would love to hear from you.

We are looking for volunteers who are able to visit a carer at home or maybe

take a carer to a support group, event or activity, and then bring them back home. In some cases we may need you to stay with the carer whilst they attend the group or activity.

If you are interested in being a part of this new service, please contact Sue Bowering on 01908 231703, email sue.bowering@carersmiltonkeynes. org for further information.

In Need of a REAL Break?

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ow often have you felt like planning a real break from your role as a carer, but been unable to find high quality care and support well in advance of your need? A new scheme is now available, developed by Carers Bucks in partnership with local not-for-profit provider, The Fremantle Trust, that allows carers the chance to plan ‘time for yourself’, book a holiday or perhaps just a day of respite – well in advance of when it’s needed.

The scheme, open to all carers registered with Carers Bucks or Carers MK, allows you to book up to six months in advance, a place in one of eight of the Trust’s modern, comfortable care homes across the county for a minimum of a week, giving you: • The peace of mind that high quality care will be available to your loved one • The opportunity to give you the break you need and deserve • The freedom to plan ahead For shorter term care and support there’s Fremantle’s care at home service, Connect.

For further information on these, including terms and conditions, call Fremantle on 01296 737 371 or download the brochure at http://goo.gl/frSw61

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Carers’ Week Diary

CARERS’ STORIES The Last Day

By Trevor Ashworth

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ow life’s evening shadows falling Guide from present tiresome labours To search for everlasting rest.

All scares healed, all jagged nerves subdued All pain calmed and quick forgotten.

Memories once known no longer recall.

Past and future blend in a single moment, And the dimming glow of life fades to sight.

Breath soon shallow in a calmer chest As long dark final night consumes.

Await now that promised new dawn And praise the breeze that douses our feeble flame.

Body still now.

Soul released from earthly bond Greets the everlasting peace.

Here eternity begins, Surround all things.

Drift now forever, free in its light embrace.

Unknown Poets

By Geoff Martin

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ho is the ubiquitous poet Anon?

She or He of indeterminate gender.

It’s ponderous to write about her of him As it’s quite a gender-bender.

So, for the sake of this verse, (And it could be worse), I shall say, Anon, will be ‘They’.

They have been around for ever, And their lives shall still go on.

Although it’s obvious for all to know, They seek no recognition.

It’s plain, They are not into the game of fame.

Maybe They are a team, of say Shirley and John, They could even be an item.

It’s never too late to speculate: Fate acceded to their fondest wish.

They did not attend a public school.

Or obtain honours degree in English.

Nor were they born in Liverpool.

And so they remain anonymous.

Feeling Inspired?

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oth of these poems have been written by carers who attend the Writing Group, which meets monthly at our offices in Acorn House. Why not come along and try your hand at some poetry or prose? Dates of future meetings can be found on page 4.

NEED TEXT

9th -15th June

We have a wide range of events, groups and training happening during Carers’ Week – here is a brief round-up. Full details are available on our website at www.carersmiltonkeynes.org

• Monday 9th June

Relaxation Techniques (booking required) Acorn House 10.30am - 12pm Parent Carer Coffee Group.

9.30am - 11am Pebbles Children’s Centre, Fishermead PACA event on Special Educational Needs (SEN) reforms.

Acorn House 6.30 - 8pm

• Tuesday 10th June

Writing Group Acorn House 10am – 11.30am Consultation event.

Acorn House reception foyer 11am– 2pm

• Wednesday 11th June Parkinsons Disease Training for Carers (booking required) Acorn House 10am – 12pm Support group Little Bookshop, Great Linford 2pm – 4pm

• Thursday 12th June

Former carers support group Acorn House 1.30pm – 3.30pm

• Friday 13th June

Carers’ Drop -in Acorn House 9am – 5pm Support workers will be in the offices at Carers MK to pick up your calls or meet you to answer any of your questions.

Just drop in - no appointment is necessary today.

• Saturday 14th June Telephone service 9.00am – 12.30pm Our phones will be open for any carers that would like advice, information or support in relation to their caring role.

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Well Being therapy centre

helping you find peace of mind

Stressed?

Anxious?

Depressed?

We can help!

For expert one-to-one counselling, please call us on: 01908 786242 or 07763127852 or email: info@thewellbeingtherapycentre.co.uk www.thewellbeingtherapycentre.co.uk Together we can explore your feelings, thoughts and decisions that you make in your life, and how they affect you and your relationships. We can also work to improve your capacity for self-reflection, self-understanding and communication with others.

MENTAL

HEALTH CARERS

A Reminder

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he Mental Health Carers Forum meets at Acorn House at 5.30pm on the first Wednesday of the month prior to the main Mental Health Carers’ Group. It is for anyone who wants to help make a difference to the services provided by the Mental Health Service in Milton Keynes. Everyone is welcome.

For further information please contact Beth Lawrence on 01908 340967 or email Beth.Lawrence@Milton-Keynes. gov.uk

Autism Partnership Board

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ow that the Milton Keynes Adult Autism Strategy is in place the board is changing the way it works to make sure that the strategy is implemented. Each meeting will have a report from the Strategy Implementation Groups, which has decided on the main priorities for 2014.

More details from Laura Garner on 01908 253002 or email Laura.Garner@ milton-keynes.gov.uk or come along to a meeting Dates of future meetings can be found at www.milton-keynes.gov. uk/social-care-and-health/autism

Learning Disability Partnership Board

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he Learning Disability Partnership Board has a new co-chair, Matthew Stemp, who will be working alongside fellow co-chairs Cheryl Beattie and Ann White from Choice Support. At the last Board we decided on a new format for meetings. The next meeting on Tuesday 3rd June 2014 will be shorter, starting with lunch at 12.15 pm and with the main meeting from 1 pm until 3pm at Herons Lodge, Loughton Lodge. Any family carers are welcome to join us.

Contact Luci Dunlop for more information 01908 253209 or lucienne.dunlop@milton-keynes. gov.uk

Mental Health Support Group

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ur mental health group offers a warm welcome to all carers supporting someone with a mental health condition. We have speakers on alternate months with support and chat sessions in between.

Wed 4th June – Selena Cox Manager

of the Urgent Advice Line Wed 2nd July – Support session Wed 6th July – Denise Harris Team

Manager of Acute Home Treatment Team Wed 3rd Sept – Support session Advance notice - Wed 1st Oct – Virginia Richards Manager of Cherrywood will be attending our meeting.

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PARENT CARERS

Special Educational Needs and Disability Reforms (SEND)

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e’ve been very busy with our involvement in the implementation process of the SEND reforms. There are now several parent reps actively involved in working groups set up to implement the reforms in Milton Keynes and we are working with professionals to make sure information is shared effectively.

We will be using a range of methods to keep you up to date ie newsletters, emails and post but we are keen to hear from you about what you think are the best ways of informing parents about these changes and to find out how it may affect you and your son/daughter.

Contact Rachael at Carers MK with any suggestions - email: pacamk@gmail. com or telephone: 07852 526057 Information and links about the reforms are available on our website at www.pacamk.org/sen-reforms and at www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/schoolsand-lifelong-learning.

The Council for Disabled Children have also produced a useful fact sheet that can be downloaded from their website www.councilfordisabledchildren. org.uk Don’t forget to keep checking our website for the latest news and developments – www.pacamk.org

Social Group for Young People with ASD

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ake a Difference (MAD) whose base is the Buszy in Central Milton Keynes (the old bus station) have secured funding to start a youth group for children aged 13 – 19 years who are on the autistic spectrum. The group will be run by fully trained staff members and volunteers and there will be a pool table, football table, DVD and

MK Dons SET is running a Nurture training session for parents of children with ASD or pending a diagnosis for this condition. See page 5 for further details.

other activities on offer.

The group starts on Thursday 15th May from 6pm – 7.30pm; sessions are free.

Contact Jade at MAD on 01908 231312.

Group for Parents in Bletchley

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he Art Room Children’s Centre in Bala Way, Bletchley is hosting a coffee morning for parent carers, enabling them to access support in their neighbourhood - you will be

warmly welcomed with tea and toast!

Groups take place on the first Thursday of the month from 9.30am – 11am

Carers MK Groups

Our group at Pebbles Children’s Cent re meet s t he second Monday of t he mont h 9.3 0 – 11am.

This group will continue to meet in August so please come along if you are around.

Our group at Acorn House meet s on t he t hird Monday of ever y mont h - please note change of time of this group now 10 . 3 0 am – 12 . 3 0 pm.

16 t h June Tina Swain, t he Manager at CAMHS is returning to give us update on t he changes at CAMHS following consult ation and review of it s ser vice.

21st July Louise Derbyshire, from Cont act a Family, will be running a workshop on Tr ansitions. Mand y Fell, from t he Children wit h Disabilities Team, will also at tend to give a local per spective.

August No meeting but please come to our Drumming Par t y on 19 t h August – see page 16 for det ails.

15t h September Tbc but likely to be an update on SEN reform.

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FUNDRAISING & EVENTS Quiz Nights

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ome and join us at our fun quiz nights and help us raise money to support local carers.

Saturday 28th June at Simpson Church starting at 7pm. Cost £8 includes pizza and salad supper; there will also be a raffle.

Contact Carers MK’s office to book and to let us know if you have special dietary requirements.

Saturday 20th September organised in conjunction with local charity Social Eyes (who support visually impaired children and their families) at Oxley Park Community Centre, 7 – 9.30pm.

Cost £2 and light refreshments will be available – you may bring alcohol, if you wish.

Teams of 6 – these can be allocated on the night. Please book through Carers MK on 01908 231703; email mail@carersmiltonkeynes.org

Bletchley Carnival

Thank You!

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ome along and support Carers MK at the West Bletchley Carnival on Saturday June 7th. We will be running a tombola stall so if you have any suitable items to donate for our stall, please feel free to drop them into the office and they will be gratefully received.

Training Day

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aturday 5th July from 1- 4pm at Caldecotte Lake by the Caldecotte Arms Pub MK7 8HP • Free train rides – wheelchair accessible carriage which take most wheelchairs • Bouncy castle • Other entertainment • Bring your own picnic Further details contact Steve at Social Eyes on 07952 734 723

Summer Celebration he Adult and Young Carers Service are joining T together to organise this celebration event for carers and their imme diate family.

Takes place on the 8th June at Heron’s Lodge, Bradw Loughton (opposite the Badminton Centre) MK8 9AA ell Road, from 1- 4pm Lots of fun activities – coconut shy, face painters, bunge e run, mobile farm, football training A BBQ will be provided – please let us know if you have any special dietary requirements Please contact Carers MK to book your place: tel 01908 231703 or email mail@carersmiltonkeynes.org

World and Music Event

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e would like to acknowledge and thank our donors for their support and generosity over the past few months: £1566.62 Santander fundraising day (special thanks to Gareth Price) £1,000 The Volunteer Centre £51.50 St Martin’s Masonic Lodge £30 A carer £1000 Mr T Ashworth, carer £100 Carers £700 U3A £80 N ew Manor WI (for Young Carers) £250 Marshall Amplifications towards Drumming Party Buckinghamshire Freemasons in conjunction with the VSCC enabled Adult and Young Carers to attend a Classic Car event at Silverstone.

Drumming Party

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uesday 19th August from 12 – 2pm at Moulsoe Millenium Hall, Cranfield Road, Moulsoe MK16 0HB For families who have a child with a disability or additional need.

• Bring a picnic • Drumming and other instruments • Face painting • Other activities For further details or to book please call 01908 231703 or email anne.matthews@ carersmiltonkeynes.org

Come along to support and be amazed (!) by the efforts of carers at from our Writing and Singing groups. This event, which was so successful last year, offers an evening of entertainment at the United Reformed Church in Newport Pagnell from 7 – 9pm while raising funds for Carers MK. The cost is £3 - light refreshments provided.

In addition there will be a raffle to help with costs of the event.

Contact Carers MK on 01908 231703 to buy tickets – some will be available on the night.

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Programme for Olney Support Group Thursday 5th June - Coffee & chat Thursday 3rd July - Coffee & chat Thursday 7th August - Tony Smith, a pharmacist from Cox & Robinson chemist, will talk about their service.

Thursday 4th September Coffee & chat Meetings are held at the Olney Centre from 2 - 4pm. Come and join us!

New Carers’ Groups This summer Carers MK will be working with the local retirement villages to support carers who live in the community and the surrounding areas.

is, all carers are welcome.

The groups will meet every second Monday morning - 10.30am at Lovat Fields and 11am at Shenley Wood, both starting on Monday 9th June.

Being part of an informal group gives carers an opportunity to meet others in similar situations, gain support, share experiences and find out what services are available to them. It doesn’t matter what your caring role

If you would like to help out at one of these groups as a volunteer we would love to hear from you. Please contact Sue Bowering on 01908 231703 or email sue.bowering@carersmiltonkeynes.org

Stroke Group

Support in the Little Bookshop

We are changing the day the stroke support group meets to the third Wednesday evening of each month at Acorn House with effect from June 2014. The first meeting under the new arrangement will be on the 18th June 6pm – 7.30pm, and then on the third Wednesday of each month thereafter.

If you are supporting a family member, friend or neighbour who has had a stroke, please come along to this friendly support group. Advanced booking is not required.

Contact Carers MK for more information.

The Olney Dementia Project

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he Cobbs Garden Surgery GPs in Olney decided to establish the Dementia Project when the Friends of the surgery received a donation from a local businessman to improve the quality of life of local people.

Olney has a higher proportion of older people than the national average with almost one in 5 being over 65. The project aims to create a dementia friendly community by increasing public awareness and working with local businesses to establish a community where people living with dementia are understood, respected and confident that they can contribute and participate in local activities.

The project is working with local businesses to look at ways they can support people living with dementia to continue day-to-day activities confident that they will be given appropriate help if needed.

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Summer 2014

Participating businesses will be given a logo to signify that they are aware of the needs of customers with dementia and will support them to engage with their business.

On the 8th March the Dementia Project Open Day brought together local and national organisations who work with, and on behalf of people living with dementia, and their carers. A number of relatives of people who had been recently diagnosed came along and were able to talk to local people with dementia and organisations which offered information and practical support.

The Dementia Project is a partnership with local people living with dementia, Carers MK, the Alzheimer’s Society and Age UK. I would particularly like to thank Debbie Baxter from Carers MK for her wisdom, encouragement and support with the work we are undertaking in Olney.

Joy Oehlman, Dementia Project Worker

Our support group in Great Linford is proving popular with local carers. It meets the second Wednesday of the month at the Little Bookshop (see photo ?), which is at the side of the Co-op, from 2 - 4pm. Carers can drop in for an informal chat, meet other carers and find out information and advice for their caring situations. Moreover, you can bring, borrow or buy books while you are there!

Contact Carers MK for more information.

Yoga for Wellbeing

We are making some changes to our yoga service.

From September there will be a 6 week beginners’ course for those new to yoga and those returning after a break. The current yoga classes will continue as before and be open to carers who: • have completed the 6 week induction course • currently attend • former carers who wish to continue their practice.

These classes will naturally become more advanced as we progress and explore ways to enhance our posture work and well-being. In order to offer this service we will be asking for a voluntary contribution of £3 per session. Contact Carers MK for course dates.

Here are some comments from carers who have attended yoga sessions: ‘I sleep much better now, if I find I can’t sleep I follow the breathing practice and it helps me get back to sleep’ ‘At a time in my life when everything was going wrong with various heavy demands from several family members I used the yoga and mindfulness practices as a life belt to help me swim safely to shore’.

You could be in the Algarve, relaxing in the sun...

Situated on the top floor of a three storey block the apartment has its own residents’ swimming pool. It has the advantage of being away from the bustle of the town centre but within walking distance (10 minutes to the marina and another 5 to the town centre).

It has a twin bedroom, open plan kitchen and lounge. The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven, microwave, toaster and washing machine. There is a family sized bathroom. The lounge has a sofa (which converts into two more single beds) and a table to seat four. A TV, DVD and CD player are also available. Both the lounge and bedroom have patio doors which open onto the balcony offering views over the swimming pool and across Lagos.

There is ample car parking space in front of the building.

www.lagosalgarve.co.uk

PRICES:

Nov to Mar £190 Apr, May, Oct £255 June & Sep £320 July & Aug £395

To book accommodation please contact Judith Hall on 01536 711884 Apartments can also be booked very competitively at judith.hall6@btinternet.com