Nearly 1,000 hours of volunteer time were given to The Carers’ Centre for Bath and North East Somerset last year, the charity has revealed.
Bryan, who volunteers with The Carers’ Centre | Photo © The Carers’ Centre B&NES
As part of their offering, the Bath-based charity provides free wellbeing activities to support unpaid carers across the region, which create a valuable space for connection and respite.
These days out, and their ‘Carer Cafés’, are led and run by volunteers, many of whom are or have been carers themselves and understand the unique pressures and strains which come with the role.
Bryan, who was referred to The Carers’ Centre after his wife, Jill, was diagnosed with vascular dementia, said: “I went into the other room with the other carers. It was the best hour and a half I’d ever had.
“I was able to relax. At The Carers’ Centre, you’re speaking to people who understand what you’re talking about. Not friends who are sympathetic to you but who don’t really understand. It makes a world of difference.”
Bryan’s wife was moved into a care home and passed away a few years ago. Like many carers, Bryan found that volunteering created a natural next step on his journey with The Carers’ Centre, because he understands the value of their offer.
He continued: “The Carers’ Centre had given me so much, I thought it was time I said ‘thank you’ and gave something back. So, I became a volunteer.
“I’ve met all sorts of carers, listened to their troubles and I hope I make a difference. I’ve run activities like Bocha sessions (a kind of bowls) and walks around the old theatres of Bath. My big thing is to give everyone who comes through the door a big welcome.”
Volunteers help to set up activities, welcome carers as they arrive and provide a listening, friendly ear.
The activities cater for adult carers and for young carers, including children as young as five who might be looking after a parent or other family member.
Jacqui Orchard, Chief Executive of The Carers’ Centre, said: “We’re so grateful for the hours that volunteers like Bryan put in. It literally changes the lives of unpaid carers for the better.
“We’re frequently developing and extending our offer, so anyone reading this who would like to volunteer, please drop us a line or find out more on our website.
“We offer flexibility, training and ongoing support, so volunteering with us is a great way to develop new skills.”
Brian concluded: “When I play bowls, trying to get to concentrate on that silly little jack at the other end of the green, I blank out the whole world around me for a couple of hours and it gives me complete relaxation.
“This is what The Carers’ Centre is doing in their way: giving you a break away from the person you’re caring for, for a couple of hours, so that you can recharge your batteries and make a better life for you both.”
