Stroud charity offers regular sessions for carers

Carers’ Week starts today and runs until Sunday 12 June. Carers’ Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face, and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. It also helps people who don't think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access support.

Stroud Valleys Project runs a popular fortnightly Carers in Nature session in collaboration with Gloucestershire County Council and Gloucestershire NHS Trust, to give carers the opportunity to take a break and enjoy some time outside in nature.

Fred Miller, who coordinates the free-to-attend sessions, says they’re a welcome opportunity for people to enjoy a little fresh air.

“You can come alone or bring the person you care for, and spend a little time in nature, becoming absorbed alongside other people,” he explains. “The other day, we went for a walk and zoomed in on insects – zooming in and zoning out, I call it! – and noticed things we might not usually see… ladybird larvae for example.

“Past groups have enjoyed making infusions from foraged leaves, focusing on birdsong, and getting active with conservation tasks.”

You don’t have to be registered as a carer to take part – anyone who spends their time looking after someone is welcome to join. The sessions might take place at Capel’s Mill or Stratford Park… and Fred says he has a few unusual locations and activities in the pipeline.

If you’re a carer or cared-for person or know someone who is and would like to come along, email fred@stroudvalleysproject.org or call 01453 753358 for more details.