Carers set up support group to help others
TWO women have used their own experiences as unpaid carers to set up a group aimed at helping others in a similar situation.
Kath Proctor was working as the lead support carer at Shawforth Care, based at Millgate House in Whitworth, when she met Angela Forster.
Angela’s son Mark was a regular visitor at the centre which provides support for people with physical and mental disabilities.
However, when Kath’s partner of 25 years became seriously unwell, she was forced to quit her job to look after her full-time. But her friendship with Angela led to the pair identifying a need for greater support for unpaid carers, which had attracted national attention through Kate Garraway highlighting the issue as she cared for husband Derek, and they launched Stronger Together in Whitworth.
Whitworth Councillor Kim Olaolu described Kath and Angela as ‘two remarkably compassionate and selfless people.’
“Angela and Kath identified a real need in Whitworth for support for unpaid carers,” Cllr Olaolu said. “From personal experience, they know how vital support for the carer is.
“Caring for a loved one, whether they have dementia or a learning difficulty, can be emotionally and physically challenging. Carers can feel isolated and their own wellbeing can falter. They decided to create somewhere for unpaid carers to get together - a place with warm smiles, food, drink and engaging conversation.
“This came to fruition in February 2023, when they opened at Sunnyside, Whitworth. They funded the venture themselves, hoping and praying people would attend. They did attend, and Stronger Together flourished.
“They provide support and advice, promote wellbeing, and create friendships built on trust and respect.
“Initially aimed at unpaid carers, they decided to have an open-door policy where anyone can attend.
“So now, whether you are a carer, cared for, elderly, lonely or in need of some practical, welfare advice, you are most welcome.
“This safe space, with its friendly atmosphere, has translated into an amazing place that keeps on delivering and growing in popularity.
“Julie Bolton, a carers’ advocate, calls into Sunnyside every two weeks.
She helps anyone who needs support, with care packages or welfare issues, ensuring people are receiving the right kind of help.
“Kath and Angela serve around 70 meals every Monday, doing all the catering themselves, starting three hours before they open up. There’s a two-course meal every week with unlimited tea and coffee.
“Donation boxes are on every table allowing people to contribute if they so choose - it’s not obligatory, however the donations they receive are always gratefully received.
“Their project grew so quickly that they required a new venue.
“Rossendale Leisure Trust, stepped up and offered The Ashcroft at a reasonable rate to enable this valuable event to continue.
“If any local businesses would like to support Stronger Together financially, so they can continue the exceptional service they provide our community, they can contact Angela Forester on 044 7827 292951.”