Posted on: Friday 2 February 2024
Unpaid carers are invited to attend a free event next month aimed at helping them save money on their energy bills.
Two events have been organised by Torfaen Council’s Carers Service, with the first one taking place on Wednesday 7 February at Llanyrafon Methodist Church, Cwmbran, from 11am to 2pm. The other takes place on 23 February at St Marys Church, New Inn, from 11am to 2pm.
A range of practical and financial support will be on offer, including advice about coping with caring for a loved one:
- Energy saving advice and items, such as LED light bulbs and draught excluders
- Benefits advice from experts who can help carers claim their entitlements and access grants and discounts.
- Health and wellbeing information for carers and their loved ones, such as tips on coping with stress, managing medications, and accessing local services and groups.
Carers can also learn more about the new Bridging the Gap Gwent respite scheme, which offers flexible and personalised breaks for carers and support for the people they care for.
Councillor David Daniels, Torfaen Cabinet Member for Social Care and Housing, said: "We recognise the invaluable contribution that unpaid carers make to our community, and we want to support them in any way we can. This event is a great opportunity for carers to get advice, information, and assistance on how to cope with the challenges of caring and the cost of living. We hope that many unpaid carers will join us and benefit from this event."
The event has been organised in partnership with the ILS Department at Torfaen Learning Zone, who will be offering free refreshments on the day.
To support the event, more than 100 draft excluders were handmade by students from Torfaen Learning Zone, as well as members of New Inn Community Craft Club, Cwmbran Community Centre, Cwmavon Craft Group and Henllys Quilters.
An unpaid carer is someone who provides help and support to a family member, friend, or neighbour who has a long-term health condition, disability, mental health problem, or addiction and cannot manage without their assistance.
There is no need book, simply turn up on the day to seek support.
For more information about Carers Support Services offered by Torfaen Council, call 01495 762200 or visit the website.