Posted on: Friday 26 January 2024
A new scheme has been launched to provide unpaid carers respite while someone else looks after their loved one.
The Bridging the Gap Gwent initiative offers people caring for relatives or friends the chance to take short break from their caring role.
This could include attending a personal appointment, an event or socialising with friends, while the person they care for is looked after by someone else.
Allan Jones, 77, from Pontypool, cares for his with who has dementia. He recently applied to BTGG with the view of accessing replacement care for his wife.
A sitting service now attends the home every Sunday which allows him to go out of the house for a few hours on his bike.
Allan said, “Bridging the Gap is a wonderful and essential scheme for unpaid carers like me. It allows me to access flexible and reliable support for my wife whenever I need it.
“I have peace of mind knowing that she is in good hands while I take a break and socialise with friends on the bike every Sunday. This has made a positive difference to my wellbeing and mental health. I have something to look forward to each week, which helps me cope with the challenges of being a carer.”
To access the scheme, carers need to speak with their social worker or professional to discuss their needs and check eligibility, in what’s known as a What Matters Conversation or Carers Needs Assessment.
Once eligibility criteria are met, carers can choose a care provider of their choice.
Carers can also request services and support for things that they may otherwise not be able to carry out themselves, in or outside the home.
BTGG is run by NEWCIS, a charity that supports carers across North East Wales. The scheme is accessible to unpaid adult carers and young carers (under 16) who reside in Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Gwent, Monmouthshire, Newport or Torfaen.
Councillor David Daniels, Torfaen Council’s Executive Member for Social Care and Housing said. "Caring for a loved one can be emotionally and physically exhausting, and it's very common that carers neglect their own wellbeing over time. This is why access to respite care is absolutely essential in helping to maintain carers' wellbeing as they undertake their incredible work.
"Respite care provides the opportunity of a much-needed break for carers to take care of themselves, and hopefully help them feel more able to cope with their responsibilities afterwards. I'm really pleased that we are able to offer this initiative here in Torfaen, and hope it will make a big difference to those who need it.
"Don’t miss this opportunity to get the support you need and deserve. Bridging the Gap is an award-winning scheme that has helped many carers in Gwent to improve their quality of life and well-being. Contact your social worker or professional today to find out more.”
Learn more about Bridging The Gap Gwent - NEWCIS