Programme of free events during Carers Week in Shropshire
Dozens of events will be taking place across Shropshire during Carers Week.
The programme of more than 40 free events will be organised by Shropshire Council's carers support service and take place during Carers Week from June 6-13.
It will include both virtual and in-person events, including garden and museum visits, guided walks, carers' surgeries, quizzes, story telling, art and craft sessions and health and wellbeing sessions.
Councillor Dean Carroll, cabinet member for adult social care, public health and assets, said: "We know this year carers across Shropshire are continuing to face new challenges as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
"Many people are taking on more caring responsibilities for their relatives and friends who are disabled, ill or older and who need support.
"This Carers Week is our opportunity to say thank you to all unpaid and family carers in Shropshire, we do recognise and appreciate the valuable support you provide to others.
"We hope these activities will be therapeutic and bring you joy and companionship. These events are our small way to say thank you for all that you provide."
Margarete Davies, carers lead at Shropshire Council, said: "As we start to ease out of lockdown, we’re inviting carers to reconnect with nature and join us in the natural environments of Shropshire, where we can enjoy the beauty of our countryside with others in a Covid-19-safe way.
"Alternatively, you may like to come to one of our crafting and plant swap activities or join us virtually for a range of enjoyable and therapeutic activities designed to reduce stress and show us techniques to use in our everyday life.
"There is a variety of virtual activities to try; the carer wellbeing exercises daily as well as sound bathing, a way of relaxing, calming and de-stressing through waves of soothing, echoing sound, or simply listen to a story by renowned story teller Jake Evans that takes you on a wild journey while remaining at home. You can choose one or several activities or why not try them all.
"Whether you want to immerse yourself in a forest or join activities from home, we hope you will find something for you, and look forward to you joining us during the week.
"We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all those that have generously donated gifts for Carers Week and those who have given up their time to present activities and talks."
A competition is also taking place to win one year's membership at Dorothy Clive Gardens. To enter people must write two sentences on why they identify as a carer.
For more information contact shropshire.carers@shropshire.gov.uk or 01743341995.
