Chepstow & Caldicot Carers Support Group

MARCH 2002 NEWSLETTER

THE CHEPSTOW AND CALDICOT CARERS' SUPPORT GROUP Chairman: Alison Short (01291-623771) Secretary: Patsy Lewis (01291-420602) Office: 'Cobblers Pitch', Highmoor Hill, Caerwent, Monmouthshire NP26 5PF Dear Carer, In February we had a very interesting talk from Stephen Chappell who is a Homeopath. He talked about the history of homeopathy and how homeopathy treats the person rather than the disease. Remedies are very dilute, natural and safe. He does occasional courses on homeopathy and if any one is interested they should contact him at the Natural Health Centre on Chepstow 627722. Health Promotion England is running a campaign at the moment on "Avoiding slips, trips and broken hips" ("ASTBH"). This is to raise awareness about the risks of falls in the home among older people, carers, relatives and friends. A fall can have a devastating impact on an older person's health, both physical and psychological. Yet many falls are preventable and there are simple, practical things that can be done to reduce the likelihood ofan older person having a fall in their home. Simple ways to reduce the risk of a fall in the home: Strength and balance exercises e.g. Tai Chi and walking, improve balance and strength and so reduce the main risk factors of a fall. Shoes with thin soles and high collars improve balance and mobility compared to other styles of footwear. Thin soles need to have good grips. Environmental changes including grab rails and plain light coloured carpets are some of the most effective changes to the home. Good vision and good lighting enable identification of obstacles and uneven floor surfaces. Reviewing medication by the GP is essential especially if the patient is prescribed more than four medicines. You can ring 0870-500-1502 to obtain the following free information leaflets. Step up to safety - information for older people on how to use the stairs safely. Preventing accidental falls in and around the home - information for friends, neighbours, relatives and carers of older people. British Gas, in partnership with Carers Wales and Employment Services, has launched a scheme to assist carers with securing employment. A large part of the scheme is work preparation training that will be provided for all potential applicants. If you are concerned that you have been out ofwork for some time, a wide range of topics will be covered from interview and application preparation to confidence building. Several open days have been arranged to find out what positions are available with the National Sales Centres for British Gas which is based in Churchill Way, Cardiff. It will be an informal opportunity for you to go along and see the type of roles that are available and experience the friendly office environment. You do not need to commit yourself to work at this stage. To find out more ring 02920-381188. If you are currently in work, and looking for a change, then this may also be an opportunity for you. However, if your caring responsibilities do not allow you to consider employment then, this scheme could be for you. There is still money available for special breaks for Carers. If you would like another extra break, contact Crossroads on 01291-672750, or Age Concern on 01633-763330 Our next meeting will be at Dewstow Golf Club on Thursday 7th March, 10.45am-3.30pm, which will be the official launch of becoming a branch of CARERS WALES, We are expecting local dignitaries to join us for the morning and the formal part and after lunch, we shall be entertained by comedian Fred Wedlock, returning to us by popular demand! If any carer would like to join us for this special day, please contact me at the above telephone number. Help with replacement care and transport is available. If you need transport from Chepstow, contact Alison Short on 623771 and from Caldicot, contact Nan Smith on 421665. OUR REGULAR MEETINGS ARE ON THE SECOND THURSDAY OF THE MONTH, AT BOVERTON HOUSE, CHEPSTOW. If you want a chat I am at Gray Hill Surgery on Monday and Wednesday mornings from 10:00am-12:00 mid-day. Anyone, subscribers or not, can come and see me there. Ring 01291-420282 for an appointment or take a chance and pop in! For transport to meetings contact Nan Smith on 01291-421665 or Alison Short on 01291-623771. Best wishes, Patsy Lewis.