A new group for unpaid carers supporting people with mental health challenges will meet on the 1st of October 2024 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at The ReCreation Hub, Rhode Lane, Bridgwater TA6 6HZ.
Caring for someone experiencing mental health difficulties brings many changes and challenges into a carer’s life. The often informal nature of the caregiving role can make this even harder. Many people don’t realise they’ve become caregivers and just see what they do as fulfilling a family or friendship responsibility.
This can result in unmet emotional and practical needs for caregivers, leading to isolation, exhaustion, and physical or emotional health issues.
Katherine West, Open Mental Health’s (OMH) CCS Carers Project Lead, said, “The new OMH Carers Group is designed to support those caring for individuals with mental health issues. We understand that carers often feel isolated, and this group aims to provide them with a space to share their experiences, gain support, and connect with others who understand what they are going through.”
An Inclusive Group for Carers in Somerset
Katherine is keen for any caregiver who feels they’d benefit from the group to come along, regardless of what condition the person they care for is facing—sometimes it might just be old age.
“We want to offer support not just for people caring for those with mental health challenges but also any carer who is feeling the impact on their own mental health. This group is for anyone in a caring role who needs that extra support. The sessions will offer a mix of one-on-one support and group discussions, allowing carers to choose what feels best for them. We want to ensure people have access to the help they need”
What happens at a Carers Group Meeting?
The meetings will be enjoyable, supportive events where carers can unwind, find solidarity with each other, and learn new things. People coming along will discover a friendly, comfortable setting where they can connect with others who understand their challenges. The group offers a space for talking about experiences, discussing practical advice, and developing self-care strategies while building a sense of community. Whether looking for guidance or simply enjoying a cup of tea and a chat, carers can take a break and feel understood and supported.
Katherine said, “A typical meeting will be a welcoming and relaxed environment where carers can share their stories, seek advice, and connect with others. Some sessions may include guest speakers or activities, while others will focus on open discussions—it’s all about creating a space where carers feel heard and supported.”
Katherine is aware of how lonely people caring for others can become. “Carers can often feel overwhelmed and isolated, and our goal is to build a supportive community where they feel less alone. The group is a safe space for them to talk about their experiences and find resources tailored to their needs.“
A Source of Friendship and Support
Katherine is looking forward to seeing how the group develops. “The OMH Carers Group will meet regularly. This ensures that carers have consistent access to its support, whether they attend every session or join whenever they need it. We’re continually working to improve the support we offer and will be collecting feedback from participants to ensure the group is meeting their needs. This feedback will help shape the future of the programme.”
To find out more about the group, email carers@somersetrcc.org.uk, and to see what other services are available to carers, visit Support for Caregivers—Open Mental Health.