Carers centre offers help for local couple supporting loved one with Alzheimer’s

A local couple have shared how Tameside Carers Centre has become a lifeline in their journey caring for a loved one with late-stage Alzheimer’s.

Janet and her partner John care for Janet’s father, William, and regularly attend the centre’s monthly coffee mornings, where they receive support from wellbeing advisors and connect with other carers.

Janet said: “We care for my dad who’s got late-stage Alzheimer’s and it is a full-on job, so coming here is so good. We’re meeting new people, making new friends and actually going out with friends we’ve made here outside of the coffee mornings.”

She added: “We can come here four or five times a week just for a chat if we want to. If there’s anything we’re struggling with, we can just come in. Everything I’ve asked for help with I have received it and I just can’t praise it enough.”

The centre also offers free activities for registered carers, including meditation sessions, seasonal events and access to other services such as welfare rights and occupational therapy.

Janet said: “We’ve been to the summer ball and the Christmas meal at the Village Hotel two years running – I was amazed it was offered to us for free but very grateful. Meditation has been extremely helpful and we both now practice it. All these activities are free, which gives us that time away from our caring commitment as we’ve both been struggling.”

Tameside Council Executive Member for Adult Social Care and Inclusivity Cllr John Taylor said: “Janet and John’s story shows how important it is to support carers in our community. The Carers Centre is a safe space where people can find connection, advice and practical help. Supporting carers is crucial for the sustainability of the health and social care system, as they are vital partners in providing care. We very much value carers and want to support them to protect their own physical and mental health and wellbeing, helping them to maintain their caring role more effectively.”

Finally, Janet added: “Everything I’ve asked for help with I have received, and I just can’t praise it enough. I understand how money is stretched and I’m just so grateful money is being put into this centre, and more people need to know about it.”

If you look after someone or support people who do, Tameside Carers Centre can help you learn about carers’ rights, access practical advice and connect with local services and organisations. Drop in anytime between 10am and 12 noon on Thursday 20 November at Tameside Carers Centre, Tameside One, Market Place, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 6BH.

Find out more information on the Carers Centre and drop-in support times at www.tameside.gov.uk/carerscentre or call 0161 342 3344. Carers can also connect with them Facebook for regular updates.