Posted on: 27 November 2024
CNWL staff celebrated Carers Rights Day on 21 November 2024, and throughout November, to recognise the invaluable contributions of unpaid carers and share information on the support available at CNWL.
To mark the day, CNWL’s Carers at Work Staff Network hosted a number of virtual events including a session on self-compassion for carers and an introduction to Triangle of Care, which is about how we as a Trust are involving and supporting carers, family and friends.
On 21 November, CNWL's Chief Financial Officer and Carers at Work Executive Sponsor, Tom Shearer, and Chief Operating Officer and Carers Council Executive Sponsor, Graeme Caul provided an update on CNWL’s ongoing support initiatives for carers.
Tom opened the event with a heartfelt welcome, expressing gratitude for carers and shared his own journey towards understanding the profound role they play. He praised the Carers at Work Staff Network’s accomplishments, including their nomination for an HSJ Award, and the implementation of the Carers Passport and “Time to Talk” sessions. He said, “The Carers At Work Network is such an important and valuable network and they have achieved so much. Thank you to everyone who has caring responsibilities and contribute to CNWL.”
Graeme Caul followed with his own personal reflections and emphasised the need to keep carers at the heart of CNWL’s mission. He described carers as “the heroes and backbone of social care” and acknowledged the unique challenges they face daily.
Later that day, Tom hosted a lively and interactive quiz on carers' rights along with a presentation. Congratulations to Ivan Wah, an Occupational Therapist with the Community Mental Health Team, who emerged as the quiz winner.
On 26 November, Liz Edwards and Heena Patel from Carers UK delivered an insightful presentation on caring during the cost-of-living crisis, covering practical and emotional support, financial aid and further resources.
Celebrations across the Trust
Many CNWL teams and departments contributed to raising awareness by hosting local events and activities throughout November. Here’s a look at what some of our staff organised:
Brent
CNWL Community Connectors participated in an event led by the Brent Carers’ Centre, a charity supporting unpaid carers in Brent. With over 60 attendees, CNWL staff engaged with carers, offering emotional well-being support and guidance on accessing appropriate services. Zubeyda Hussein, a community connector and passionate carer champion, received positive feedback for her dedication to upholding carers’ rights and making sure they receive the support they deserve.
Harrow
Staff in Harrow dedicated a whole month to celebrating and raising awareness of carers with various events and awareness activities. You can read more information about this soon.