In the market town of Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire a special group of people gather every month to offer and provide one another support. The support comes in many forms – friendship, being listened to and being heard, the holding of a hand, the giving of advice, the sharing of a sad moment and the laughter of shared struggles. In some cases, having someone to listen whilst they can off load their troubles is all that is required. This much needed and appreciated help comes from the Carers Trust Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and Norfolk (CTCPN) that runs carers hubs all over the county of Cambridgeshire.
Today, we were invited along to meet the people who benefit so much from the wonderful work of Gemma Whitehouse, Senior Carer Support Officer at CTCPN and her team. The monthly meetings are for carers with their loved ones and for carers who are recently bereaved. It gave us the opportunity to talk about the free break at Kingham Cottage, near Bath that we offer carers courtesy of After Umbrage and answer questions about logistics and things like bed linen and towels. When carers have so much to think about for their loved ones, the simple fact that we provide this was gratefully received. It is one less thing to think about.
In the room there were several people who were recently bereaved and because the cottage has two bedrooms – a double and a twin – there is the possibility they could make up a party together and share the tranquility and comfort that Kingham Cottage offers. It is sometimes over looked that the cottage is available to carers who experience the loneliness and emptiness of bereavement. It felt good being able to offer a hand of support at this difficult time.
We are proud to have more photographs of Kingham Cottage available online and invite you to take a look. With every home comfort, we have created a haven to wrap its arms around you whilst you stay with us. Please do tell your friends, family and network about us – that would help us greatly and we are grateful. Thank you Gemma and the Carers Trust for your interest in our charity and for including us in your lovely meetings for carers.