A Carers Garden Party was held on 11 April in Aberystwyth to bring carers of all ages together to take their caring hat off and enjoy with their loved ones.
Students from Coleg Ceredigion studying for their BTEC Level 3 Health and Social Care qualification had been working hard with the Ceredigion County Council’s Carers Unit to put on a special Garden Party for Carers.
After six months of planning, research and hard work, Cwrt Mawr Hub at Aberystwyth University was hung with colourful decorations, large blooms of pom poms, flower garlands, floral bunting and vintage china – they truly brought the garden indoors and lifted the spirits of all who attended.
Arwyn Morris, Corporate Lead Officer for Customer Services said, “The day to day responsibility of caring for someone can take its toll and can often get in the way of enjoying those everyday moments with family and friends. This event gave Carers the space to sit back and relax together for a few hours. The students put so much effort into creating that chance to recharge the batteries, they had thought of every detail…. they even managed the sunshine!”
Carers of all ages were made to feel welcome and valued from the moment they arrived, from being greeted at the entrance in a true VIP fashion, given welcome gifts, shown to tables and comfy seating and waited on hand and foot. The afternoon tea was also made and served by students from the Catering Department – including strawberry topped scones and other yummy cakes.
The students entertained the Carers with stand up comedy, violin, singing, ukelele, piano solo and more. Carers young and old also enjoyed quieter activities such as colouring in, board games and the chance to sit and chat with other Carers and families.
One Carer said, “We thoroughly enjoyed everything you organised for us, from the thoughtful gesture of a coaster and seeds to the fabulous entertainment which was unexpected and thoroughly enjoyable. The venue was excellent too, nice and bright and I liked all the touches that you had made, inside and out. Especially the draughts! That was a very unexpected touch and we took advantage….Absolutely fabulous.”
The Carers Unit would like to express their thanks to the Centre for Widening Participation and Social Inclusion team at Aberystwyth University for the venue, additional staff and student leader support throughout the day.
Carers provide unpaid care by looking after a family member or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or struggling with mental health or addiction. Helping a loved one get the most out of life can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be very tough.
For more information, please contact the Carers Unit on 01970 633564 or carersunit@ceredigion.gov.uk.
25/04/2019