A free online resource provided by a Christian charity is enabling carers from in and around the diocese to meet together for encouragement, support and prayer. Carers Connected is available nationwide online and brings people who are caring for adult loved ones together.
Carers Connected was set up by the Christian charity Embracing Age as a way to offer encouragement, support and prayer to carers via online gatherings. It has been particularly useful for those who struggle to get to church services or to a small group due to their caring commitments.
The Carers Connected online meeting is led by facilitators and lasts for one hour with time to chat and share experiences, a short time of reflection usually with a Christian poem or song, and a short time of prayer at the end. It has been described by carers as ‘a lifesaver’, ‘the highlight of my week’, ‘a gently welcoming oasis’, ‘something just for me’.
Rod, who lives in Cheltenham and worships at Trinity Cheltenham, joined Carers Connected when he was caring for his wife, Pearl. He says he was delighted to join a group of Christians who “knew the score, who were facing the same issues, where we could share insights, support each other and pray together”.
Pearl died three years ago but, with empathy for carers and strong friendships forged among the group members, Rod became a volunteer facilitator. Even now as a host, he feels it is a ‘two-way street” and that he receives from the group as well as contributing.
Linda, from Frampton Mansell near Stroud who attends Minchinhampton Baptist Church, joined Carers Connected when she was caring for her husband, Maurice, and then her sister. “The gentle, supportive leadership and fellowship with others in a similar situation was just what I needed and I made friends for life. The balance is just right with opportunity to share one’s difficulties and problems, some appropriate spiritual input – often a poem or song, and time to pray for one another.”
Linda’s husband died in December 2021 and her sister in April 2023 but she remains a valued member of the group. “Their support is still appreciated and I can empathise with those going through the same difficult circumstances as I did.”
Living in Gloucestershire, Rod and Linda meet up from time to time, and Rod has now joined a prayer group run by Linda. Through Carers Connected, they gained new friendships and now offer support to others experiencing similar experiences to their own.
If you know a carer who might be interested in finding out about Carers Connected, visit www.embracingage.org.uk/for-carers or email Sarah at ku.gr1738870374o.ega1738870374gnica1738870374rbme@1738870374srera1738870374c1738870374