Caring for Carers - a training programme for black and minority ethnic carers

Birmingham East & North (BEN) Primary Care Trust, in association with Future Health and Social Care, Birmingham City Council Adults and Communities and AXIS, are running a new 11 week course for black and minority Carers who look after people experiencing mental health difficulties.

What you can expect from the 'Caring for Carers' training programme

Introduction

Following a successful pilot, this new 11 week course is now being offered to Carers of people experiencing mental health difficulties.  It offers a particular emphasis on the needs of Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Carers. 

The aims of the Programme

Over the course of the 11 weeks we hope that Carers will realise the following aims.

• Carers to consider the importance of looking after themselves
• Share information and give and receive support from fellow Carers
• Raise awareness of resources available in local areas and how to gain access to them
• Develop a range of coping strategies
• Learn to communicate more effectively
• Learn some valuable problem solving skills
• Consider the impact of race, culture and faith on the experience of Caring, the person cared for, and access to mental health services

For more information about the course, please click to view the 'Caring for Carers' poster and leaflet.

What we expect from you

We do understand that it can be very difficult for carers to find time to attend courses such as these so we are happy to help in any way we can.

So, although Carers will be expected to complete the full 11 weeks (you will be awarded with a certificate of attendance on completion), we can do the following to assist you:

• Help you identify a sit in service for the person you care for whilst attending the course
• Refund your travel costs 
• Provide lunch
• Run the course at a time that will not affect childcare arrangements

We are very eager to encourage you to attend this course - please do give us a call to discuss how we can help you (see contact details below).

When and Where?

The training programme will run once a week for 11 weeks starting on Monday 29th September, between 11:00am and 1:30pm.  Lunch will be provided.

The venue will be:
Birmingham Carers Centre
130 Colmore Row
Birmingham
B3 3AP

What to do to book your place on the training programme

For more information or to book your place please contact Aiesha Wright,
Tel: 0121 765 5191
Mobile: 07966 899 383
Email: aiesha.wright@benpct.nhs.uk