Carers Week, 10th – 16th June, embraced the theme “Putting Carers on the Map,” aiming to enhance the visibility of carers among decision-makers, services, employers, communities, and businesses. Have you ever wondered how many carers reside in your area of Solihull? Visit our Carers Week page to explore our interactive map.
A Beach Day to Remember
We kicked off the week with our annual beach trip to Weston-super-Mare, where two coaches full of carers of all ages and their families enjoyed a day by the seaside. For many, this was a rare opportunity to experience the beach and enjoy some much-needed respite. It was especially meaningful for our young carers, offering them a break from their usual responsibilities to spend a fun day with their families.
Walking for a Cause
The following day, we hosted a charity walk at Packington Estate in Warwickshire, in collaboration with Carers Trust Heart of England, celebrating both Carers Week and Carers Trust’s 50th anniversary. The event saw a wonderful turnout, with participants enjoying a scenic walk through the estate’s beautiful grounds. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and raised funds through sponsorships—every penny will directly support unpaid carers.
Collaborating with Blossomfield Rose Care Home
We partnered with Blossomfield Rose Care Home for two delightful events. The first was a cinema afternoon where carers enjoyed a screening of “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” with popcorn and treats. It was an afternoon filled with laughter and socialising. Later in the week, we held a pamper morning, offering free treatments like facials, massages, and manicures. This provided much-needed “me time” for many of our carers.
Special Activities for Young Carers
Our young carers had a blast during an extra special monthly carers club, where they tried their hand at circus skills and enjoyed a visit from an animal expert. They bravely interacted with a variety of exotic animals, including snakes, spiders, and lizards.
Raising Awareness Throughout the Community
Throughout the week, we focused on raising awareness and reaching as many carers as possible within the community. We distributed information packs to over 20 businesses, organisations, and educational institutions across the Borough, including Asda, Marks & Spencer, Morrisons, Solihull Action Through Advocacy, Solihull Community Advice Hub, and Grace Academy.
We also hosted information stands, offering advice and information to the public about carers. Our outreach team partnered with University Hospitals Birmingham, for a stand at Solihull Hospital and held a drop-in session at Monkspath Community Hub with Solihull Healthcare Partnership.
Engaging with Professionals and Policy Makers
Our CEO, Brandon Scott-Omenka, and Adult Team Manager, Hazel Evans, delivered a presentation on our services for carers to Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council’s adult social care team. Presenting to 60 professionals, we highlighted the challenges faced by unpaid carers and the support we offer, aiming to encourage better identification and support of carers within the social care system.
Brandon also attended the Solihull Market Engagement Forum at Solihull Council, where he met with Roger Catley (SMBC) to discuss preparations for the imminent CQC adult social care inspection. We will be facilitating the involvement of 30 adult carers to share their perspectives with the inspection team. During the event, we engaged with 30 care home providers to raise awareness of the ongoing support needed by carers even after their loved ones move into care homes.
A Grand Finale: Charity Ball and Carer Friendly Awards
We concluded the week with a spectacular charity ball and Carer Friendly Awards at The Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport. Hosted by Phil Oldershaw, the night was a resounding success, filled with entertainment and celebration as we announced the winners of our Carer Friendly Awards. Special thanks to our sponsor, UB Healthcare, for their support and fundraising efforts.
Although Carers Week 2024 has come to an end, our mission to support unpaid carers in Solihull and raise awareness about their invaluable contributions continues. Thank you for your ongoing support.