Our Carers Café is a lifeline for some
Since February 2022, we have been running a monthly Carers Café in East Belfast specifically for carers of those living with dementia. This is facilitated by East Belfast Community Development Agency (EBCDA) to ensure carers feel supported and heard as well as being given an opportunity to share their experiences in a safe, relaxed space.
Although our Cafes are very much led in discussion by those in attendance; we do try to ensure we offer a variety of activities and talks for those who come along. We have had numerous speakers in such as Carers NI to inform carers of the financial support they can avail of, Dementia Navigator Service, Alzhiemer’s Society, Action Mental Health and Libraries NI.
We want our Cafes to be a relaxed and informal space where carers can really unwind and take time for themselves so we have done themed crafts, felting, painting, took a walk along the beautiful Greenway, had afternoon tea together and engaged in some music and memories sessions.
We recently asked some of those who have attended what the cafe means to them;
I always feel so much better after chatting at the cafes
This is such precious time spent with our families and carers
This is a great group for support in caring for a loved one with dementia
Laughter with other carers
Going to the Cafes, we have found out so much more about dementia and have made new friends
It is great support to hear other peoples experiences
Our Carers Cafe takes place on the 1st Thursday of every month in Holywood Arches Library from 1.30pm. If you care for a loved one with dementia or have done so in the past and feel that you could benefit from this support then please do pop along or contact Davina Mullin, Health Development Co Ordinator on davina@ebcda.org for information.
If you just simply want to find out about what services are available in the local area we will always have an information table there that you can come, pick up leaflets and leave again without having to participate in the Café.
