What are support groups?
Our support groups run regularly all over Surrey, and now on Zoom, too.
Many are for ALL carers, and we have lots of specialist groups, such as one for carers looking after someone with dementia, or someone with an eating disorder. They’re open to anyone – family members, friends, neighbours – anyone in a caring role.
We can also signpost you to support groups outside our organisation that provide support for specific conditions, like the dementia cafés or Parkinson’s support. And you can read about online groups of interest to carers here run by other organisations.
Carers report that their caring role can make them feel lonely. Meeting up with other carers is a great way to fight that feeling of isolation.
Sometimes you feel you’re the only person in the world with this problem, and then you go to a support group and realise there are others like you.
What happens at a support group?
They are friendly, informal get togethers, sometimes with a guest speaker, where you can chat to others about your caring role, and give each other support.
You can:
- Share with others what it feels like to look after someone
- Have your own needs recognised and understood – it’s a time for YOU.
- Get information and learn more about support and local services
- Share ideas on looking after yourself and managing your caring role
- And what’s said in the group, remains in the group – it’s confidential
In-person support groups usually take place at places like community centres or cafes. There’s always tea/coffee on offer and Action for Carers staff there to support you too. Some carers find it easier to join a digital (Zoom) support group as it fits with their caring responsibilites, and these can be really supportive get-togethers too.
How do I find out about support groups?
On the Events page you’ll find a listing of all our groups. We’d love to see you there!
Please remember that you need to register with us as a carer to attend a support group. Registering is quick and easy – please click the button below.
If you’d like more information, please give us a call on 0303 040 1234 (select option 1) or email us [email protected]
At first I thought it was a silly idea to talk to lots of other people with the same problems as me, I thought I’d end up more miserable. How wrong can you be? The support group has become my lifeline.
