Tameside carers centre helps couple Alzheimer’s journey

A Tameside couple have shared how Tameside Carers Centre has become a vital source of support as they care for a family member living with late-stage Alzheimer’s.

Janet and her partner John are full-time carers for Janet’s father, William. The pair regularly attend the centre’s monthly coffee mornings, where they receive advice from wellbeing specialists and connect with others facing similar challenges.

Janet said: “We care for my dad who’s got late-stage Alzheimer’s, and it is a full-on job, so coming here is so good. We’re meeting new people, making new friends and actually going out with friends we’ve made here outside of the coffee mornings.”

The couple also visit the centre throughout the week to seek guidance or simply enjoy company and conversation.

“We can come here four or five times a week just for a chat if we want to. If there’s anything we’re struggling with, we can just come in. Everything I’ve asked for help with I have received and I just can’t praise it enough,” Janet added.

Alongside practical advice, the centre offers a range of free activities and wellbeing opportunities for registered carers, including meditation, seasonal events and support from services such as welfare rights and occupational therapy.

Janet explained how much the activities have helped them take a much-needed break from caring responsibilities: “We’ve been to the summer ball and the Christmas meal at the Village Hotel two years running – I was amazed it was offered to us for free but very grateful. Meditation has been extremely helpful, and we both now practice it. All these activities are free, which gives us that time away from our caring commitment as we’ve both been struggling.”

Cllr John Taylor, Tameside Council Executive Member for Adult Social Care and Inclusivity, said: “Janet and John’s story shows how important it is to support carers in our community. The Carers Centre is a safe space where people can find connection, advice and practical help. Supporting carers is crucial for the sustainability of the health and social care system, as they are vital partners in providing care. We very much value carers and want to support them to protect their own physical and mental health and wellbeing, helping them to maintain their caring role more effectively.”

Janet echoed the importance of funding and awareness for the centre: “Everything I’ve asked for help with I have received, and I just can’t praise it enough. I understand how money is stretched and I’m just so grateful money is being put into this centre, and more people need to know about it.”

If you care for someone, or support people who do, Tameside Carers Centre can help with understanding carers’ rights, accessing practical guidance and connecting with services across the borough.

Residents are invited to drop in between 10am and 12 noon on Thursday 20 November at: Tameside Carers Centre, Tameside One, Market Place, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 6BH.

For more information, visit the Carers Centre website at www.tameside.gov.uk/carerscentre, call 0161 342 3344, or follow them on Facebook for updates.