Time for carers to put themselves first, as ‘Exploring Me’ comes to Moville
“Carers make an enormous contribution to their families and communities, often with little time to focus on themselves”
A holistic programme designed to support family carers across Inishowen is getting underway in Moville this week.
The Care4Carers ‘Exploring Me’ Programme, delivered by Inishowen Development Partnership (IDP), is being hosted in Moville for the first time and aims to give carers an opportunity to focus on their own needs while connecting with others who share similar experiences.
The programme begins with an informational Coffee Morning in the Methodist Hall, Moville, at 10am on Friday, September 4th, when carers can learn more about the supports available through the programme.
The opening event will feature a self-care and stress management session delivered by Mary Bradley Wellbeing.
Mary will share practical strategies to help carers manage the emotional and physical demands of their caring role, while highlighting the importance of prioritising their own wellbeing and selfcare.
Funded through the Department of Social Protection's Dormant Accounts Action Plan 2024, Care4Carers provides carers with a supportive space to step back from their daily responsibilities, build confidence, develop new skills and explore opportunities for personal growth.
Mary Coleman, Employment Support Worker with IDP, outlined that over the coming weeks, participants will have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of activities tailored to their needs and interests.
These include IT training and internet safety sessions, a flower arranging workshop, an information session with Citizens Information covering benefits and entitlements, nutrition and cookery workshops focused on healthy eating while caring for others, and further wellbeing sessions centred on self-care, resilience and positive mental health.
The programme also incorporates elements of personal development, confidence-building and skills development and supported pathways.
"We are delighted to bring the Exploring Me programme to Moville for the first time,” said Mary.
“Carers make an enormous contribution to their families and communities, often with little time to focus on themselves. This programme is about recognising that contribution and giving carers the opportunity to learn, connect, build confidence and take some much-needed time for their own wellbeing.”
“We are looking forward to welcoming carers from across the area and supporting them on their personal journey."
Importantly, people do not need to be formally registered as carers to take part. Anyone providing care and support to a family member, friend or loved one is welcome to attend and find out more about the programme.
Places are limited and early registration is encouraged. Further information and registration details are available at https://inishowen.ie/whats-on/