Rhondda carers go back to school for free
Published on 20 Sep 2012
Carers in Rhondda Cynon Taf are heading back to the classroom to undertake further education thanks to a pioneering Open University scheme.
Launched by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and the Welsh Education Association, the Engagement Gateway allows carers in the County Borough to broaden their horizons and achieve their personal goals.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Carers Support Project is providing the opportunity for carers to undertake an Open University course of their choice – all free of charge.
‘Conspiracy of silence’ over dementia in the doctor’s surgery
People who suspect they might have the beginnings of dementia are waiting seven-and-a-half months before facing up to their problems, a survey of doctors indicates.
By Stephen Adams, Medical Correspondent
12:01AM BST 20 Sep 2012
There is a “conspiracy of silence” between patient and doctor over the disease, with both sides reluctant to raise the the issue, say specialists
The survey of 200 British doctors, sponsored by drugs firm Eli Lilly, found only one in four raised the matter with patients they suspected of having the early signs of dementia.
New members welcome to join Mole Valley ex-carers’ group
A SOCIAL club for former carers who have lost their loved ones is open to new members.
The Mole Valley Ex-Carers Social Group was started by former members of Carers Support Mole Valley who found they had more free time after losing the person they looked after.
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SOCIAL SCENE: Group members at Woodbury Cottage in Reigate RELM20120905B-001_C Photo by Liam McAvoy
Anne Broughton, who acted as carer for her husband for 12 years before his death, said: “It is hard to maintain your social life when you are caring all the time, so when you experience a loss it can be difficult to know what to do with yourself.
“The networks that are in place for carers are a brilliant help in that respect when you are an official carer, but due to lack of funding they can only support you for a year after you lose the person you are caring for.”
The social group has organised a series of outings, including a trip to Woodbury Cottage in Reigate on September 5, and Mrs Broughton hopes members will become firm friends.
She said: “The ex-carer network has been started because it is nice for people to have that social contact with people who have been through the same thing.
