wcc bulletin oct & nov 2014 issue

Wandsworth Carers’ CentreAnnuAl GenerAl MeeTinG

will be held onWednesday 19th November 2014 from 1.30pm to 2.45pmat Earlsfield Library, 276 Magdalen Road, London SW18 3NY

The business to be conducted includes electingthe new Board Members for the Carers’ Centre.

Guest Speaker: Ben Cavanagh from Carers Trust –‘The Care Act – What it Means for Carers’

Please call us on 020 8877 1200 to let us know you are coming LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE END OF THE MEETING

Wandsworth Carers’ CentreAnnuAl GenerAl MeeTinG

will be held onWednesday 19th November 2014 from 1.30pm to 2.45pmat Earlsfield Library, 276 Magdalen Road, London SW18 3NY

The business to be conducted includes electingthe new Board Members for the Carers’ Centre.

Guest Speaker: Ben Cavanagh from Carers Trust –‘The Care Act – What it Means for Carers’

Please call us on 020 8877 1200 to let us know you are coming LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE END OF THE MEETING

Wandsworth Carers’ Centre

BULLETINISSUE 77 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2014

Calling All Male CarersRecent research by Carers Trust shows that:� 53% of male Carers felt that their needs

were different to the needs of female Carers� 56% aged 18-24 said being a Carer had a

negative impact on their mental health� 8 out of 10 male Carers not currently working due to their caring role feel

they miss out on spending time socially with other friends and family

Do you agree with these statements? Would you like Wandsworth Carers’Centre to facilitate a service that specifically meets the needs of male Carers?

If so please contact the Centre and we can plan something together.Please call 020 8877 1200 or Email: [email protected].

Dementia Group Visit to Wisley Gardens

WANDSWORTH CARERS’ CENTRE – Your Local Carers HubWandsworth Office: 181 Wandsworth High Street, London SW18 4JE Tel 020 8877 1200 Fax 020 8877 3936

Balham Office: 46 Balham High Road, London SW12 9AQ Tel 020 8675 0811 Fax 020 8675 8452

Calls welcome via text relay Email [email protected] Website www.carerswandsworth.org.ukWandsworth Carers’ Centre is a company limited by guarantee with charitable status. Registered Charity Number 1053121. Company Number 3152094.

Wandsworth Carers’ Centre BulleTin iSSue 77 – OCTOBer / nOVeMBer 2014COnTenTS

Wandsworth Carers’ Centre Annual General Meeting ................................1Male Carers Research ................................................................................................1Dementia Group Visit to Wisley Gardens ........................................................2Carers Trip to Portugal ............................................................................................3Step Forward Project from MIND ......................................................................4Help Make Care Homes More Active, Healthy Places! ..............................4Wandsworth Carers’ Centre Eid and Diwali Celebrations ........................5Are You Caring for Someone with a Learning Disability ..........................5Health and Wellbeing Event for Carers ............................................................6Help Plan Pharmacy Services in Wandsworth ..............................................6Budgeting Taster Course (run by South Thames College) ......................6Free Fun Event for Carers Aged 14-25 ............................................................7Peer Support Groups Dates ..........................................................................8 & 9

Stroke and Acquired Brain Injury Support Group ......................................10Carers of Adults with Learning Disabilities Support Group....................10Free Stress Management for Carers Course ..................................................11Stress Management for Carers Course Facilitator Needed ....................11Counselling and Art Psychotherapy..................................................................12Beginners Computer Course ..............................................................................13Key Computer Skills Workshops ........................................................................13Adult Social Services in Wandsworth ..............................................................13Spotlight on Homeopathy ....................................................................................14Wandsworth Carers’ Centre’s Opening Hours ..............................................15Wandsworth Carers’ Centre’s Therapeutic Services ..................................15Wandsworth Mental Health Interest Group....................................................16Key Dates for Your Diary ......................................................................................16

2 Wandsworth Carers’ Centre Bulletin

Dementia Group Visit to Wisley Gardens

Thedeadline for the nextWCC Bulletinis Monday 7thNovember2014

Wandsworth Carers’ Centre Bulletin 3

TRIP TO PORTUGAL Discover this beautiful region of Europe withstunning scenery and a vibrant culture steepedin history with Wandsworth Carers’ Centre.

19th to 26th September 2015 8 days – £739.00 per person

WhAT’S inCluDeD � Return flights from the UK � Return resort airport coach transfers with

assistance to your hotel � 7 nights accommodation � Buffet style breakfast each morning � 3 course dinner each evening at the hotel � Drinks with dinner –

1/4 litre of wine and 1/4 litre of water � Tea/Coffee after dinner � Excursions as detailed in the itinerary

WhAT’S nOT inCluDeD � Suave Mar Hotel � Single supplement of £153 per person � Travel insurance at £40 per person

Portugal is so much more than the resorts and golfcourses of the Algarve. In the north of the country,away from the package-holidays, you’ll find adestination of rugged coastline and dramaticmountain scenery, of vineyards and fine food andhistoric cities and hilltop villages.Hidden Portugal, as it has come to be known,remains to this day largely untouched by masstourism and is a country whose people offer awarm welcome and who will delight you with theirrich and colourful culture and wonder at theprofound historic wealth that Portugal has to offer.

� Please note: Should you wish to bring yourcared for, the Carer will have soleresponsible for the cared for

� it is not available to ex-Carers� it is not recommended for people with

mobility problems

hOW TO BOOKPlease contact Quyen Banh at WandsworthCarers’ Centre on 020 8877 1200.

COST£150.00 per person – non-refundable Depositdue no later than 19th January 2015 with the finalbalance required by the 11th July 2015.

Day 1: Today we depart from London on our flight toPorto. Once on Portuguese soil we will be met by ourguide at the airport, who will direct us to our coach andaccompany us to our Hotel Sauve Mar, in Esposende.Dinner at the hotel on the evening.Day 2: After breakfast we will be met by our guide for afull day excursion of Porto, where you will find amysterious city that reveals its charm. We will take ourtime and wonder through the mazes and alleys of the city,where there is plenty to see from the Ribeira, WorldHeritage areas, Sao Francisco Church, traditional marketsand of course “Taylors”, renowned as one of the best PortWine producers, in which we will sample with a tastingsession included. Dinner at the hotel on the evening.Day 3: Today we will enjoy a guided tour, making our wayin the morning to the historic town of Guimaraes, the firstCapital of Portugal, nominated for European Capital ofCulture in 2012 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wewill enjoy the morning walking through the cobbledstreets and visiting Ducal Palace. In the afternoon we willmake our way to Braga for a visit to the Bom JesusSanctuary, one of the most remarkable examples of 18thCentury religious architecture, which is simplybreathtakingly beautiful, decorated will wall fountains andstone carvings. Dinner will be at the hotel.Day 4: Today, we will enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a fullday at the hotel at our own leisure. This is a day ofrelaxation, where we can relax, unwind and enjoy theleisure facilities on offer.Day 5: After breakfast, we will take a guided tour toPenede Geres National Park, also known simply as Geres,which is the only national park in Portugal. We will thenmake our way to see the charms of Portugal’s Oldesttown, Pont de Lima, surrounded by gardens, fancymansions, historical buildings and plenty restaurants toenjoy at your leisure. We will then finish the day bytravelling to Penafiel for a visit to Quinta de Aveleda. Thisis the most amazing vineyard estate, owned by the samefamily for generations and looked after with the utmostpride and care you will ever see, along with some winetasting which is included. Dinner will be at the hotel.Day 6: Today, we will enjoy a half day guided excursion toBarcelos. Barcelos is a small town known for its potteryand the most widely-recognised symbol of Portugal – theBarcelos Cockerel. We will enjoy the largest weekly marketin Portugal, where we will have free time to purchase someof the local produce. Dinner will be at the hotel.Day 7: Today, we will enjoy our last day, where we canrelax, unwind, and reminisce on our weeks adventure.Tonight we will enjoy our last Dinner at the hotel.


help Make Care homes MoreActive, healthy Places!

Researchers from Kingston University and St George’s University of London are looking forenthusiastic individuals with personal experience of caring for older people to join a researchstudy advisory group. The three year research study will evaluate a programme called ActiveResidents in Care Homes (ARCH) in three residential care homes in South London. Theresearchers will assess whether it leads to any improvements in the health and wellbeing ofresidents and whether it is cost effective.

ARCH helps residential care homes become more active, healthy places by increasingopportunities for older residents with a range of physical and cognitive impairments toparticipate in meaningful activity. The programme is led by specialist occupational therapistsand physiotherapists who work closely with residents and staff at each care home: developingactivity plans for residents and training staff to support residents and to help the programmebecome part of the wider activities of the care home. The main role of the advisory group willbe to comment and provide advice on how the study is progressing. This will include looking atstudy materials and providing feedback and taking part in discussions which will help guide thestudy team’s decisions. The advisory group will meet twice a year and travel expenses to andfrom meetings will be reimbursed.

The first meeting is on 9th October 2014 from 10am to 12pm at St George’s university oflondon. If you are interested in getting involved then please contact Sian Koskela to find outmore by email: [email protected] or Tel: 07812 563 252.

Step Forward Project from MinDPersonal Budget information & Support Service

Including: Mental Health, Learning disabilities,Physical disabilities, Sensory impairment, Older adults and Carers

Do you want to find out if you are entitled to a social care budgetto help you lead the life that you want to live? Do you need help

to buy the services and support you need?We are committed to helping every one of our clients

have greater ChOiCe and COnTrOl in their lives.For more information or just a casual chat about how we can help you,

please contact: Trecina rajakone, Support Co-ordinator, Wandsworth MinD,on Tel: 020 8875 9162 or Email: [email protected].

What is a Direct Payment? Find out more at www.wandsworth.gov.uk/acis.

here with you, For YOu!


Wandsworth Carers’ Centre invites allCarers to an eid and Diwali Celebration

Come along to the Eid and Diwali Celebration which will be held on Tuesday4th november 2014 from 12.30-3pm at Balham library, 16 ramsden road,Balham SW12 8QY. This event is open to All Carers.

If you would like to attend please call nadeya atWandsworth Carers’ Centre on 020 8877 1200 toput you name down on the list and to obtain furtherdetails. There will be a vegetarian lunch available.

eid al-Fitr is also known as the Feast of Fast-Breakingor the Lesser Feast. It marks the end of Ramadan.eid al-Adha means the Festival of the Sacrifice.Diwali celebrates the victory of good over eviland is known as the ‘festival of lights’ becausehouses, shops and public places are decoratedwith small earthenware oil lamps called diyas.

Are you Caring for someone with a learning Disability?Padraic Costello, Clinical Nurse Specialist for Learning Disabilities at St George’s Hospital, will beattending the next support group for Carers of Adults with a Learning Disability. Padraic is new tothe role and would like to meet Carers to talk about what he and his team does, including:

� Arranging hospital passports and relevant care plans � Organising beds for a parents and Carers if they want to stay overnight with the person

they care for� Coordinating Multi Disciplinary Team meetings to ensure that the person’s care is

planned, delivered and concluded as safely as possible � Arranging for 1:1 specialist support � Liaising with discharge planning coordinators and social services departments to obtain

appropriate packages of care on discharge from hospital� Breaking down clinical information and treatment plans so they are clear for patients and

Carers � Providing a point of contact to Carers with questions and issues� Supporting people with learning disabilities and their carers with Out Patient Department

appointments

Padriac is also looking forward to hearing from Carers about what you require from the service at StGeorge’s, so do come along to find out more and feed in your views! Please note, you are welcometo attend this meeting if you care for a younger adult or child with a learning disability too.

When: 2nd October 2014 from 11.30am to 1.30pmWhere: Wandsworth Carers’ Centre, 181 Wandsworth High Street


health and Wellbeing event for CarersWandsworth’s Health and Wellbeing Board are running a special event to findout what Carers think about Pharmacy Services. The event is free and lunchwill be provided.

When: Wednesday 22nd October 2014 from 1 to 2.30pm Where: Wandsworth Town Hall, Room 123

They want to know: � Are Pharmacies in the right place? � What services would you like them to offer?

To find out more or to let us know you are coming, please contactPhilippa at Wandsworth Carers’ Centre on Tel: 020 8675 0811.

FREE FLU JABS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR CARERS AT THIS EVENT_______________________________________________________________

Complete a Survey to help PlanPharmacy Services in Wandsworth

Local people are being asked to take part in a major survey to find out if theborough’s pharmacies are in the right place and delivering the services localpeople most need. The Borough’s Health and Wellbeing Board is keen to getthe views of residents, local groups, patients’ representatives, Carers, businessand pharmacists themselves to make sure local chemists are at the heart of thecommunities they serve. The Board is a partnership of the council and GPs,including representatives from the council’s public health and adult social caredepartments. The survey will be open until 1st October 2014, and the responseswill help shape the final document, which will go out to formal consultation fora further 60 days. The final version will be published in the spring of next year.

Take part in the survey by visiting this website:www.surveygizmo.com/s3/1780449/Pharmacy-Patient-Survey-Final

or to request a paper copy or find out more,please call 020 8871 5043 or email [email protected].

Budgeting Taster CourseA Budgeting Taster Course run by South Thames College wil be held atWandsworth Carers’ Centre, 181 Wandsworth High Street, on Wednesday 5thnovember 2014 from 11am to 1pm. Call 020 8877 1200 to book your place.

Are you a Carer aged 14-25?Come along to a Free Fun

event for Young Adult Carers


We will be discussing your experiences as a Carerand barriers to employment, training and education. We want to find out how we can best support you.

As part of the event we will get creativeand design a graffiti wall!

To find out more or to let usknow you are coming, please

call 020 8675 0811

or email: [email protected]

When: Thursday 30th OctoberWhere: Wandsworth Carers’ Centre,

181 Wandsworth high StreetTime: 5 to 8pm

Registered Charity Number: 1053121Company Number: 3152094

What is involved?� Free food and soft drinks throughout � A chance to meet other young adult Carers� Opportunities to find out about services for

Carers in Wandsworth� Create a piece of graffiti art to be displayed

at the Carers’ Centre� Help design services for young adult Carers

––– PEER SUPPORT GROUP DATES –––Carers of Adults with learning DisabilitiesThis is a group for older Carers of Adults with Learning Disabilities over the age of 35. We meet on the 1stThursday of each month from 11.30am to 1.30pm and the group is facilitated by Sarah Rackham. We discussissues from Day Care, Transition from Home to Supported Housing and all aspects of Services for Adults withLearning Disabilities in Wandsworth. We are an open group and new Carers are always welcome.

For more information contact Sarah rackham via the Carers’ Centre.MeeTinGS COMinG uP: 2nd October and 6th November 2014 at the Carers’ Centre, Wandsworth Office. See

Page 5 for further information and details of the speaker on 2nd October.

Carers of Younger Adults with learning DisabilitiesThis group meets on the 2nd Tuesday every 2 months from 11am to 1pm. Would you like to meet other Carerslike you to talk about anything and everything? Exchange ideas, have a laugh, enjoy trips out, listen and talkto speakers. If you care for a younger adult with learning difficulties aged 15-35 then come and join us andwe will make you very welcome.

neXT MeeTinG: 14th October 2014 at the Carers’ Centre, Wandsworth Office. See Page 10 for speaker.

Carers of People with Dementia – including Alzheimer’s diseaseThis group meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month from 11am to 1pm and is facilitated by WandsworthCarers’ Centre and the Alzheimer’s Society. This is a supportive and friendly peer support group for peoplewho care for a person with dementia. If you would like to speak to someone about the group please callEglionna on 020 8877 1200.

neXT MeeTinG: 8th October and 12th November 2014 at the Carers’ Centre, Wandsworth Office.

Group for Carers of Adults who experience a Mental illnessThis group normally meets on the 2nd Thursday of the month from 2pm to 4pm and is facilitated by ChristineLewis, rethink Mental illness, and Abi McNeil from the Carers’ Centre, enabling Carers to support each otherand share experiences in a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. If you care for someone with a mental illness,we hope you will join us.

MeeTinGS COMinG uP: 9th October and 13th November 2014 at the Carers’ Centre, Wandsworth Office.

Carers of Older PeopleThe Wandsworth Carers’ support group for Carers of older people meets on the last Wednesday of eachmonth from 11am to 1pm. We’re a very friendly group and very supportive of each other.

We also have guest speakers that discuss issues concerning Carers and the person they care for. It’s a greatway of meeting other Carers and airing your views and experiences.

MeeTinGS COMinG uP: 29th October and 26th November 2014 at the Carers’ Centre, Wandsworth Office.

ex-Carers Support GroupMeets every fortnight on Wednesday afternoons from 2pm to 4pm. This is a group where people who havestopped caring for someone can have a cake and a cup of tea and receive support to help you get started onyour own life after caring.

MeeTinGS COMinG uP: 1st, 15th and 29th October and 12th and 26th November 2014 at the Wandsworth Office.

Stroke and Acquired Brain injury GroupMeets on the 3rd Thursday of every month from 11am to 1pm at the Balham Office, 46 Balham high road,london SW12 9AQ. For further information please contact 020 8675 0811.MeeTinGS COMinG uP: 16th October and 20th November 2014 at the Carers’ Centre, Balham Office. Pleasesee further information on these meetings on page 10.


––– PEER SUPPORT GROUP DATES –––Mental health evening information SessionsThese sessions are held on the 3rd Monday of every other month at the Balham Office, 46 Balham highroad, london SW12 9AQ. These sessions are presented by guest speakers and are an opportunity for Carersto receive information on various topics, ask questions, have discussions and share information. For moreinformation please contact Shenade on 020 8675 0811.neXT MeeTinG: 17th November 2014 from 6pm to 7.30pm at the Carers’ Centre, Balham Office.

Asian Carers’ GroupA friendly informal group where you can come and meet other Carers, socialise, share experiencesin confidence, get informal advice and information and enjoy other activities and outings. The Asian Carers’Group meets on the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 2pm to 4pm at the Carers’ Centre Balham Office, 46Balham High Road, London SW12 9AQ. For more information please call 020 8877 1200.MeeTinGS COMinG uP: 14th October and 11th November 2014 at the Carers’ Centre, Balham Office.

Coffee ClubThe Coffee Club is a social informal support group open to all Carers and Cared for linked with the Carers’Centre. Snacks, tea and coffee are provided – it is a space to meet other Carers, talk about issues or just chatgenerally. Drop in for as long as you can stay – come as often as you like! Speakers may be organised asagreed with Carers. The Coffee Club meets every 3rd Friday of the month from 10.30am to 12.30pm at theCarers’ Centre Balham Office, 46 Balham High Road, London SW12 9AQ. new members are very welcome– call Quyen on 020 8877 1200 if you would like to know more or just come along!MeeTinGS COMinG uP: 17th October and 21st November 2014 at the Carers’ Centre, Balham Office.

Mental health Carers GroupOpen to all Carers – new Members welcome. This group meets on the 3rd Thursday of every month from1.30pm to 3.30pm. For further information please contact Sarah rackham, Katherine low Settlement, 108Battersea high Street, london SW11 3hP. Tel: 020 7223 2845.MeeTinGS COMinG uP: 16th October and 20th November 2014 at Katherine Low Settlement, Battersea.

Substance Misuse Carers’ Peer Support GroupDoes someone you care about use drugs or alcohol? Come and meet with others in a friendly andsupportive environment. Share experiences, learn about relevant topics and gain new information fromguest speakers. For more information contact Tom Young on 020 8675 0811. This group usually meets onthe 4th Thursday of every month from 11am to 1pm at the Carers’ Centre Balham Office, 46 Balham HighRoad, London SW12 9AQ. MeeTinGS COMinG uP: 23rd October and 27th November 2014 at the Carers’ Centre, Balham Office.

Aspergers Carers Support GroupA friendly group that seeks to provide peer support and to consult with local decision makers. The groupmeets on the last Thursday of the month from 6.30pm to 8pm at the Wandsworth Office. The group is opento Carers of people with Aspergers aged 16 and over and is facilitated by Christina Greig. If you would likefurther information please call Eglionna at Wandsworth Carers’ Centre on 020 8877 1200.MeeTinGS COMinG uP: 30th October and 27th November 2014 at the Carers’ Centre, Wandsworth Office.

Transition Carers Support Group – learning DisabilitiesThis group is for Carers that are or have gone through the transition period from school to adult services aged18 and over. The group is run by Jane Delaney, a Carer with support from Wandsworth MENCAP. The groupmeets from 11am to 12.30pm on the last Friday of the month (except during school holidays) at theWandsworth MenCAP Office, 26 Totterdown Street, Tooting, london SW17 8TA. Speakers attend at therequest of the Carers. For more information please contact Chris at Wandsworth MenCAP on 020 8767 9911.MeeTinGS COMinG uP: 31st October and 28th November 2014 at the Wandsworth MENCAP Office.


Stroke and Acquired Braininjury Support Group

The Acquired Brain injury Support Group (including Strokes) meets onthe third Thursday of each month, from 11am to 1pm at the Balham officeof Wandsworth Carers’ Centre, 46 Balham high road, london, SW12 9AQ.

This informal group aims to provide Carers with a space to share ideas,informal advice and experiences and hear from guest speakers. I haverecently taken over the facilitation of this group.

At our last group in August, Michelle Gersh from the Stroke Associationattended to discuss the signs of a stroke and how to respond. Michellealso gave Carers information about the services and support the StrokeAssociation can offer.

We have the following speakers booked for forthcoming groups:

16th October – hannah McCorry from headway South West london,which is an acquired brain injury service, will be attending to discuss theservices Headway can offer and the specific support available to Carers.

20th november – Michelle Gersh from the Stroke Association will beattending to discuss stroke prevention and health and wellbeing andrelaxation techniques for Carers.

I look forward to seeing you!

Claire CassidyCarers’ Support & Development Officer


Carers of Adults with learning Disabilities Support GroupClaire Cassidy, WCC’s Carers’ Support & Development Officer, will beattending the Carers’ of Younger Adults with Learning DisabilitiesSupport Group on Tuesday 14th October. Claire will be attending theGroup to obtain Carers’ views on a long-term planning tool that we aredeveloping at Wandsworth Carers’ Centre. This tool aims to enableCarers and those whom they care for to plan for what will happen in thefuture. We hope to see you at the Group and look forward to hearingyour views which will assist us in the development of this project.


Free Stress Management for Carers CourseWandsworth Carers’ Centre will be holding a free

Stress Management for Carers course later this yearOur Stress Management for Carers course involvestwo 3 hour sessions delivered over two consecutive

weeks and includes the following:� What is Stress?� Personal Stress Triggers� Time Management and Prioritising� Coping Strategies & Stress Management Techniques� Breathing and Relaxation Exercises

For more information and to book your place, please contact:Shenade at Wandsworth Carers’ Centre on

Tel: 020 8675 0811 Email: [email protected]__________________________________________________________________________

Course Facilitator needed (Carer)We are looking for a Carer with great interpersonal skills to help deliver and co-facilitateour Stress Management for Carers Course. The Stress Management for Carers Courseis a co-produced course.

A few years ago two members of staff and two Carers attended a ‘Train the TrainerCourse in Stress Management’ and together went on to develop a course suitable forour Carers. The course has continued to be delivered and facilitated by both a memberof staff and a Carer. Delivering and facilitating this course together ensures the courseis completely relevant and beneficial to Carers and offers the opportunity for mutualunderstanding and peer support.

We are now looking for another Carer to help deliver and facilitate our next course. Asa facilitator you will:

� Be fully supported before and during the course� Develop your public speaking and presentation skills� Practice facilitation � enhance your interpersonal skills and qualities� Gain new skills and knowledge

Facilitating a course like this one can feel very rewarding andenjoyable. If you are a Carer and interested in this opportunity,please contact: Shenade at Wandsworth Carers’ Centre onTel: 020 8675 0811 or Email: [email protected].

Counselling and Art PsychotherapyWandsworth Carers’ Centre offers a free confidentialCounselling and Art Psychotherapy service at both

the Wandsworth and Balham offices.

CounsellingCounselling gives a person a safe and confidential place to address anyproblems they might have, with someone who is able to be supportive andnon-judgemental. The emphasis of counselling is very much on enabling aperson to achieve changes in their life, through their own exploration anddecision making, rather than telling them what to do. If it is specifically adviceor information that you require then counselling may not be suitable.

Art Psychotherapy Integrative Art Psychotherapy is suitable for anyone interested in accessingtalking therapies such as counselling. The therapist helps you to find waysof using images or music to gain insight into experiences, thoughts andemotions that are sometimes so overwhelming or complex they cannot bedescribed or reduced into words. You decide what you would like to talkabout with the therapist during the session. The themes and issues you wantto discuss are explored verbally and when you are ready further explorationusing the art materials can take place.

What we offer at Wandsworth Carers Centre:� We are able to offer counselling or Art Psychotherapy appointments

to Carers free of charge

� Appointments are offered across both Wandsworth and Balham (ArtPsychotherapy is currently only at Wandsworth) sites

� Appointments last for 50 minutes and are offered on a weekly basis

� There is a minimum of 6 appointments and a maximum of 24 sessions

When a Carer is interested in receiving counselling they are first seen byPhilippa (Wandsworth Carers’ Centre’s Volunteer Development Manager), inorder to discuss their needs and also so they can find out more about thecurrent service offered. If you have any further questions please speak toPhilippa on Tel: 020 8675 0811 or Email: [email protected].


Beginners Computer CourseThe Computer Course for Carers is back – by popular demand!Javier Sanchez is our IT Tutor volunteer, and he has over 20 years experience trainingpeople how to use computers. Javier has run 2 successful courses so far at theWandsworth office. The Computer Course will begin running again on Tuesdaymornings, from 11am until 1pm, starting on the 21st October 2014, please call 020 86750811 or 020 8877 1200 to put your name down for a place.

Key Computer Skills WorkshopsWe are going to run some workshops demonstrating some key computer skills, including:

� Letter writing� Setting up an email account and sending an email� Using Social Media, such as Facebook and Twitter� Browsing the internet and online shopping

If you would like to come to any of these one-off workshops, please give us a call on 0208675 0811 or 020 8877 1200 to put your name down for a place. The workshops will berunning during October. If you have any ideas for computer skills that you would like usto run a workshop about, please let Philippa know by calling 020 8675 0811 or [email protected].

Does someone you care for receive help or supportfrom Adult Social Services in Wandsworth?

Then join the Adult Social Services Carers Groupand contribute your views and experiences

� Contribute to improvements in services� Share your views with senior managers and the Chief Executive� Receive payment for your time� The group meets every 6 weeks for 2 hours at the Town Hall� Meet other like minded Carers � The group is facilitated by staff from Wandsworth Carers’ Centre and

Wandsworth Social Services

The group has been directly involved in shaping the work of Social Servicesregarding Home Care, Carers Assessments and many other issues. The group alsohas regular meetings with senior staff including the Director of Social Services.

To find out more, please contact Philippa at Wandsworth Carers’ Centreon Tel: 020 8675 0811 or email [email protected].


SPOTLIGHT ON HOMEOPATHYWhat is homeopathy?Homeopathy is a complementarysystem of medicine with the aimof triggering the body’s naturalsystem of healing itself. A patientis given homeopathic medicineknown as a remedy, which ismade from an extremely dilutedsolute either from plant, mineralor animal products. Remedies are100% natural, non-toxic, safe andhave no side-effects. By takinghomeopathic medicine thebody’s natural healing power is stimulated and increased, aiding the body to returnto a state of natural health. Homeopathy is based on the principle that you cantreat ‘like with like’, that is, a substance which causes symptoms when taken inlarge doses, can be used in small amounts to treat the same symptoms. Forexample, one remedy which a person suffering from insomnia might berecommended to take is coffea, a remedy made from coffee.

What can homeopathy be used for?Homeopathy treats the person rather than the specific condition, and canpotentially be helpful with a wide range of issues. Illnesses commonly seen byhomeopaths include recurring infections, skin conditions, arthritis, chronic fatigue,migraines and stress related symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia.

is homeopathy suitable for me?Homeopathy is a safe, gentle and effective method of complementary healthcare,which can be safely used by anyone including babies and pregnant women.

What is available at the Carers’ Centre?We are able to offer an initial one hour consultation with a trained Homeopath.After the consultation, you will be given a homeopathic treatment and a follow-upappointment about a month later for a review on how the treatment has beenworking for you.

To find out more or to put your name down for a homeopathic consultation,please contact the Carers’ Centre on 020 8877 1200 or 020 8675 0811.


ADVICE AND INFORMATION – We offer support with benefit claims and appeals, housing,respite, grants and access to health and social services and much more. The Advice workers,in addition to english, also speak the following languages: Quyen Banh – Cantonese andVietnamese and Shashi Verma – hindi, Punjabi and urdu. Please ring the Centre to book anappointment, a home visit can be arranged where necessary.

WORKING CARERS – if you are unable to get to the Centre during the above hours please letus know as we can offer out of hours appointments during the week. For further informationand appointments please call on 020 8877 1200.

OSTEOPATHIC CLINIC – Do you suffer from back pain or joint problems? Do you need advice onmoving and handling? We have a regular Osteopathic clinic at both sites which could help andgive you advice on how to care for your back and joints. Please ring the Carers’ Centre on 0208877 1200 or 020 8675 0811 for an appointment.

Monday 10am – 5pm 9.30am – 5.30pm

9.30am – 5.30pm

9.30am – 5.30pm

9.30am – 5.30pm

9.30am – 5.30pm

10am – 5pm

10am – 5pm

10am – 5pm

Appointments Only

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

OPen FOr All enQuirieS

OPen FOrTelePhOne CAllS

WAnDSWOrTh CArerS’ CenTre’S OPeninG hOurS

TherAPeuTiC SerViCeS


Complementary Therapies at Wandsworth Carers’ CentreWe offer a number of free therapies to Carers. All our volunteer therapists are either trained or intraining, and they are fully supported and insured. Therapies can reduce stress and give Carers a chanceto take some time out to focus on their own needs.

What is currently available?At Wandsworth: reflexology Monday morning

Body Massage Monday afternoonAcupuncture Friday afternoon

At Balham: Japanese Face Massage Wednesday afternoonhomeopathy Wednesday afternoonAcupuncture Thursday afternoonBody Massage Friday morning

Getting an appointment: To book an appointment in Wandsworth please call 020 8877 1200 or tobook an appointment in Balham please call 020 8675 0811. You will be placed on a waiting list at firstand we will call you when an appointment becomes available.

Deposit and Cancellation Policy: Due to cancelled appointments we require a £10 deposit from you. Ifyou miss an appointment without giving reasonable notice of cancellation we will retain this deposit,otherwise it will be returned to you after all your appointments have been completed. Our volunteers’time is valuable and we would like to be able to benefit as many Carers as possible.

Donations: Our therapists are all volunteers, however there are certain running costs associated withproviding these services. You can support the work of the charity by making a donation either in cash or bya cheque made payable to Wandsworth Carers’ Centre. If you are a taxpayer you can also Gift Aid thedonation, so that we can claim back any tax deducted from your donation. Please ask us for a Gift Aid form.

KEY DATES FOR YOUR DIARYDATE EVENT FOR INFO

1st October 2014 Ex-Carers Support Group (and 15th and 29th October and 12th and 26th November 2014) See Page 82nd October 2014 Carers of Adults with Learning Disabilities (and 6th November 2014) See Pages 8 & 58th October 2014 Carers of People with Dementia – including Alzheimer’s Disease (and 12th November 2014) See Page 89th October 2014 Carers of Adults who Experience a Mental Illness (and 13th November 2014) See Page 89th October 2014 Active Residents in Care Homes (ARCH) Advisory Group See Page 414th October 2014 Carers of Younger Adults with Learning Disabilities See Pages 8 & 1014th October 2014 Asian Carers’ Group (and 11th November 2014) See Page 916th October 2014 Stroke and Acquired Brain Injury Group (and 20th November 2014) See Pages 8 & 1016th October 2014 Mental Health Carers Group (and 20th November 2014) See Page 917th October 2014 Coffee Club (and 21st November 2014) See Page 921st October 2014 Beginners Computer Course See Page 1322nd October 2014 Wandsworth Health and Wellbeing Board Pharmacy Services Event See Page 623rd October 2014 Substance Misuse Carers’ Peer Support Group (and 27th November 2014) See Page 929th October 2014 Carers of Older People (and 26th November 2014) See Page 830th October 2014 Aspergers Carers Support Group (and 27th November 2014) See Page 930th October 2014 Young Adult Carers (Aged 14-25) Event See Page 731st October 2014 Transition Carers Support Group – Learning Disabilities (and 28th November 2014) See Page 94th November 2014 Wandsworth Carers’ Centre Eid and Diwali Celebration See Page 55th November 2014 Budgeting Taster Course (run by South Thames College) See Page 611th November 2014 Wandsworth Mental Health Interest Group See 17th November 2014 Mental Health Evening Information Session See Page 919th November 2014 Wandsworth Carers’ Centre Annual General Meeting See Front Cover19th-26th Sept 2015 Carers Trip to Portugal See Page 3

Wandsworth Mental health interest GroupMental Health Service User and Carer Led Forum and Sub-Group

of the Mental Health Clinical Reference Group Wandsworth

For more information contact: Shenade at Wandsworth Carers’ Centre onTel: 020 8675 0811 or Email: [email protected] or John Morrill atVoicing Views on Tel: 020 8526 7716 or Email: [email protected]

VOICING VIEWS PROJECT

Tuesday 11th november 2014 from 2 to 4pmEarlsfield Library, 276 Magdalen Road, London SW18 3NY

Open to all with experience of Mental illness: Serviceusers, Carers, Family Members, Friends and Professionals

Come along this month:� Update on Wandsworth Mental Health Services� Give comments to go forward to the next Mental

Health Clinical Reference Group meeting� Discuss any other Mental Health related business

wcc bulletin oct & nov 2014 issue

Documents

carers trust

carers trip

needs of male carers

male carers research

wandsworth carers centre

needs of female carers

london sw18

wandsworth carerscentre