1. Stonham
Birmingham Mental Health Carer Support Services
| Edition 3 | October 2012 | www.homegroup.org.uk | https://bhammhcarer.homegroup.org.uk |
E-mail: MHCarerService@homegroup.org.uk

2. World Mental Health Day
www.who.int
World Mental Health Day raises public awareness
about mental health issues. The day promotes
open discussion of mental disorders, and
investments in prevention, promotion and
treatment services. The treatment gap for mental,
neurological and substance use disorders is
formidable especially in poor resource countries.
Mental Health refers to a broad array of activities
Contact us… directly or indirectly related to the mental well-
being component included in the WHO's definition
of health: "A state of complete physical, mental and
social well-being, and not merely the absence of
Birmingham Mental Health Carer disease". It is related to the promotion of well-
Support Services being, the prevention of mental disorders, and the
treatment and rehabilitation of people affected by
Unit 3, Holt Court North, Heneage mental disorders.
Street West, Birmingham Science Park,
Aston, B7 4AX
Wednesday 10th October 2012
Tel: 0121 380 4949
Fax: 0121 380 4901
Email
MHCarerService@homegroup.org.uk
annette.lewis@homegroup.org.uk This year the theme for the day is “Depression: A
balkar.shoker@homegroup.org.uk Global Crisis”.
Website Depression affects more than 350 million people of
all ages, in all communities, and is a significant
https://bhammhcarer.homegroup.org.uk contributor to the global burden of disease.
Although there are known effective treatments for
depression, access to treatment is a problem in
most countries and in some countries fewer than
10% of those who need it receive such treatment.

3. Birmingham Mental Health Carers Client Involvement Group
This Group is an opportunity for carers who currently or have formerly
accessed the carers service and would like to have an impact on how the
service develops, lead on client activities and share their experiences with
other carers.
Topics up for discussion will include:
PALS customer relations
What carers want from one on one support sessions (Patient Advice and
What carers would like from peer group meetings Liaison Service)
Clients activities and fundraising
Client involvement opportunities Can provide information
Promotional events on a range of mental
As well as many more key areas of the service.
health matters, and liaison
with all Trust services
The involvement of carers is crucial in helping us to deliver exceptional
services that are designed around what you, our customers want now and in
the future. Monday to Friday
The group meets regularly and everyone is invited. Staff from the service will 8am to 8pm
facilitate this meeting and lunch will be provided.
Venue - Birmingham Mental Health Carers Support Service, Stonham Regional Contact
Office, Unit 3, Holt Court North, Aston Science Park B7 4AX
If you would like more information about this event, please make contact 0800 953 0045
either by phone on: 0121 380 4900 or email:
MHCarerServive@homegroup.org.uk Text
annette.lewis@homegroup.org.uk + balkar.shoker@homegroup.org.uk
07985883509
Positive Mental Health Group
Email
th
Thursday 25 Oct
2.30pm – 4.30pm pals@bsmhft.nhs.uk
Thursday 29th Nov Website:
2.30pm – 4.30pm
www.bsmhft.nhs.uk
Thursday 13th Dec
2.30pm – 4.30pm
Please note that the PALS
team is NOT a medical
Venue;
team.
Friends Institutes, If you have an immediate
220 Moseley Road, health problem please
Highgate, contact NHS Direct above
Birmingham, or your GP
B12 0DG
Bus route 50 runs every few minutes from Birmingham City centre

4. FREE Training By Crossroads Care
The purpose of the service is to provide Moving and Handling TRAINING
and/or First Aid Training in the home, for family members and
friends (carers) providing substantial and regular care for an Free of Charge
adult or a child who has a disability, limiting long term illness,
mental health problem, or frailty due to age, and who lives in
Birmingham. Carers Rights Course
to be held on Carers
The objectives are as follows:-
1. To safeguard the health of carers, and those they care for. Rights Day 2nd
2. To promote safer handling methods which will benefit both the October 2012
carer and the cared for, and improve carers’ confidence in their
ability to care safely at home, for their relative or friend.
If you would like to attend this
3. To highlight issues faced by carers, and promote improvements course please contact the
in services which should be made available to them.
group
On
07748 744 254
Or email
kingstandingcarersgroup
Monaco House @yahoo.com
118-156 Bristol Street
Birmingham
B5 7AS
Telephone: 0121-622-0574
Email: info@mhcrossroads.co.uk
Compliments, comments and complaints
Stonham encourages compliments, comments and complaints from everyone
we work with and we welcome anything you have to say on how we do our job
Please let us know what’s on your mind – everything helps us improve our service.
Is this a? (Please tick): Compliment Comment Complaint Date ………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
You name and contact number (optional) ……………………………………………………………………….
Are you? (Please tick): Client Carer Stakeholder Referrer Other

5. www.chinesebirmingham.org.uk
Call: 0121 685 8510
Welcome to the Chinese Community Centre - Birmingham
The Chinese Community Centre in Birmingham is a place where people come together to learn, share and offer
opportunities for the well being, social care and cultural enrichment of others.
With the dedicated support of over 60 volunteers and the hard work of a small core of staff, we provide a variety of
programmes in:
 Supporting Communities
 Cultural Connections
 Business Services
Our vision for the next 5 years is to continue on the path of becoming a vibrant hub that contributes to the cultural,
civic and business life of Birmingham and the West Midlands. We will be building a national advice and advocacy
online service for people whose opportunities are limited due to language barriers, poor health or having to care for
those who are ill or disabled. We also aim to become a centre of excellence in the research and development of public
policies to meet the health, mental health and social care needs of disadvantaged and vulnerable groups.
The Chinese Community Centre Birmingham is a registered charity no. 1076290 and a Company Limited by Guarantee.
Walking Walks for Varies. Visit places Saturdays. Free - excluding travel expenses
Group Chinese of interest such as During the
speaking service museums, attend months of
users seasonal events April to
October from
10:00 to 14:00
approx.
Carers Varies Varies Every last Depending on activity
Monthly Thursday of
Activity each month
Monthly Provide learning CCC-B Every first Free. Lunch: carers £3.50,
Health Forum platform for Friday of each public: £4.50
personal month
wellbeing between 10:30
- 13:30

6. Carers Advocacy
Service (Birmingham)
CEA Card
The CEA Card is a national concessionary card Do you offer care and support to
developed by the Cinema Exhibitors’ Association for an adult living in Birmingham?
UK cinemas in order to allow people with disabilities
to obtain one free ticket for a person accompanying Does helping a friend, neighbour
them to the cinema (The Carer). or family member have a significant
impact on your life?
To apply for the card, you will need to meet one or
both of the following criteria: Advocacy supports you to speak out
and express your views and feelings
a) Be in receipt of the disability living allowance or about being a carer. An adult carer is
attendance allowance; someone aged 18+ who provides
support for a relative, partner, friend,
b) Be a registered blind person. or neighbour who is 18 or older and
would not be able to manage
The aim of the CEA Card is to provide a consistent without their help.
voluntary approach to the provision of
complimentary tickets for people with disabilities. In Advocacy can help to ensure your
the past this was done on a site-by site-basis. rights are upheld, that your voice is
Around 90 per cent of UK cinemas are supporting heard, and that you are involved in
the scheme from the large national chains to smaller the decisions that affect your life.
independent operators. Ring 0845 123 1292 for
details or visit www.ceacard.co.uk This is a free service for adult carers
who look after an adult in
This card will cost you around £5.50 Birmingham.
Opening times: Mon - Fri 9am – 5pm
SHOUT is an annual LGBT Cultural and
Community Festival developed and
Helpline: 0800 29 49 490
managed by Birmingham LGBT. This
inclusive and distinctive festival develops
talent and encourages participation.
2011′s festival featured over 50 separate
events and performances delivered by Organisation Details
over 100 artists and performers, including 17 films, 5 visual
arts shows, 5 talks, 3 theatre shows, 15 performances and 7 169 Newhall Street
community events.
Now moving into its fourth year, SHOUT boasts a wealth of Birmingham
activity, bringing internationally acclaimed artists to the city
and providing local producers with a unique opportunity to B3 1SW
be part of a number of commissioned projects.
The varied programme of visual arts, film, theatre, music,
performance, literature and community activities aimed to 0121 212 1727
promote the diversity of the city’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and
transgender communities whilst consolidating Birmingham’s
developing role as an LGBT tourist destination. birmingham@carersadvocacy.org
See www.shoutfestival.co.uk for details.

7. Birmingham Mind Carers Group
Tuesdays 11.30am – 12.30pm
Stockland Green Methodist
Tel numbers: 0121 622 0571 or 0121 622 0572 Church
Core Values For the Carer For those you care
We will meet at for
Crossroads considers that Carers should be Stockland Green A drop-in coffee
entitled to practical support to reduce the Methodist Church Café, morning at
located opposite Beechcroft Centre
stress of caring, giving Carers time to be 11.30am –
Birmingham Mind’s
themselves. Beechcroft Centre 12.30pm
We Can Provide... People who look after others benefit from meeting
with people in a similar situation.
Personal care - during the daytime, TIME-4-U and Stonham Carers Service
evening, weekends or overnight. will be working together to offer Carers respite,
mutual support and practical information via Carers
Support to get out and about. Groups/Services situated across Birmingham.
Advocacy when accessing other Contact Jess on 0121 237 3761 or
services. Jo on 0121 380 4949 to find out more
Support through periods of change
and beyond bereavement.
A service planned and delivered to
meet your own particular needs.
Carers Rights Day 30th November 2012
Carers Rights Day is organised by Carers UK, an organisation that works closely
with DWP to ensure that carers receive the advice, benefits and services they are
entitled to.
This year Carers Rights Day will be on
Friday 30 November 2012
For more information you can go to the Carers UK Website:
www.carersuk.org
0121 355 1006

8. (As featured in the Carers Centre Newsletter)
Why have a funeral plan? Benjamin Franklin once said: “The only things certain in life are
death and taxes” In the current economy both are expensive. It’s always good to plan ahead
for yourself or perhaps a loved one you are caring for. Many people are concerned about the
rising costs of funerals and Age Concern Birmingham can help.
Some people consider taking out life assurance products gambling on the sum assured being
enough to cover the price of a funeral. Our funeral plan products are guaranteed to cover all
your funeral director’s services prices even if they increase in the future.
Why not talk to us about what a Funeral plan can do for you? We are happy to provide a no
obligation quote and our friendly Age Concern Birmingham staff are even able to visit you and
explain how Funeral Plans work in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
To book a visit to discuss Funeral plans please call 0121 748 5819 or
Email info@ageconcernbirmingham.org.uk to make an appointment
Do you have an email address?
If so you could help us save money and the environment!
Please complete below to receive your Stonham Carers Information Pack
electronically.
Or email us at MHCarerService@homegroup.org.uk
Name ………………………………………………………...
Email Address ………………………………………………
Events and activities
We know that you are committed to your caring role but we believe that carers also have
a right to a life of their own and that you need to maintain a balance between your caring
responsibilities and any leisure or social activities you would like to pursue. This should
be taken into account during our assessment of your needs as a carer.

9. Free Courses run by MIND
How to contact us
Tel: 0121 237 3761 Mob: 0780 113 0609
Email patriciacox@birminghammind.org
jyotigogna@birminghammind.org
To find out more or arrange an appointment to discuss the courses and discover what else
Birmingham Mind has to offer contact us at the above number.
Or why not come to an information afternoon at our Beechcroft Centre any Tuesday
between 1.30 - 4pm. Here you will be offered support to establish whether these and other
Birmingham Mind activities will be of benefit to you.
Beechcroft, 501 Slade Road, Erdington B23 7JG
Bus Routes: 65 to Slade Road, 11 to Reservoir Road
Course Venues are:
New Heights Café, 108 Warren Farm Road Kingstanding, B44 0QN
Bus Routes: 33 to Warren Farm Road, 28a to Hawthorn Road
South Aston United Reformed Church
Upper Sutton Street, Aston, B6 5BN
Bus Routes: 65 to Aston Road/Lichfield Road, 8 to Park Lane
Anxiety and Depression Coping Skills Course – 8 weeks
Each week we will cover a different topic and practice a simple relaxation technique. The course will
encourage you to:
Gain a better understanding of what depression and anxiety are and some of the causes
Look at the effect your thoughts have on your feelings and how to begin to challenge these
Explore a variety of techniques to help you deal more effectively with problems, sleep issues, self
esteem and assertiveness difficulties
Look at the effects of diet and exercise on mood, and some simple changes you can make.
Self Esteem and Confidence Building Course – 6 weeks
This course will use a variety of techniques to help you explore and improve the way you see and feel
about yourself. The course will encourage you to:
Look at the effect of negative thinking on your behaviour
Explore ways to use body language to your advantage
Learn to say what you want and negotiate with others
Try out basic assertiveness skills, learn how to say no effectively, and handle criticism
Take opportunities to set goals and begin to take control of your life
Value yourself.

10. Carers Emergency
Response Service
In the event of an emergency
The CERS team will work with the Carer and the person
they care for, to mutually agree a Contingency Plan which would
include details of what they would like to happen in the event of
An emergency. CERS would then put the plan into action.
You have to be registered with CERS to access the service.
For More Information and to Register Please Contact:
0845 468 1338 or email: info@cers.org.uk
This service is free of charge.
Information in other languages
A Resource for carers for whom English is not their first language
Carers UK adviceline
Our adviceline can advise carers on a wide range of issues from benefit checks to
accessing practical help. Appointments with a translator can be booked. Our freephone
number is 0808 808 7777 and we are open on Wednesday and Thursday 10am -12pm
and 2pm - 4pm. Our advisers can also be contacted through typetalk during these
hours.
Google Translate
Google has a toolbar that can translate any of these website pages into a wide range of
languages. To install the tool and find out more visit
http://translate.google.com/translate_tools

11. Carers Break Grant scheme
Carers Break Grants are payments of £250 provided by Birmingham City Council. Carers can only get
a grant once every two years and the person they care for must live in Birmingham.
Who can apply?
In order for a carer to apply for a grant the person they care for must:
• Be over 18 years of age
• Be resident within the City of Birmingham
We also ask carers to send proof that they are providing ‘regular and substantial care’.
A carer is providing ‘regular and substantial care’ when caring has:
• A significant impact on their day to day life;
• Takes up their time and energy and
• Is negatively effecting their physical or emotional health
For further information, please contact us:
Phone 0121 303 4044
Email: CarersBreakGrant@birmingham.gov.uk
Web: www.birmingham.gov.uk/carer-info
Tai Chi is wonderful way of achieving peace and tranquillity and is a
good defence against the emotional stresses and physical stra ins of
life.
Stonham Birmingham Mental Health Carer Support Service
and the Birmingham Tai Chi Club will be offering free taster
sessions around the City to carers and support staff in the
Birmingham area soon.
Please contact the Gateway Team on 0121 380 4949 to register
your interest.

12. Introduction to Meditation & Buddhism Courses (Info taken off their website)
Buddhism is a path of practice and spiritual development leading to Insight into the true nature of reality.
Buddhist practices like meditation are a means of changing yourself in order to develop the qualities of
awareness, kindness and wisdom. The experience developed within the Buddhist tradition over thousands of
years has created an incomparable resource for all those who wish to follow a path – a path which ultimately
culminates in Enlightenment or Buddhahood. An enlightened being sees the nature of reality absolutely
clearly, just as it is, and lives fully and naturally in accordance with that vision. This is the goal of the Buddhist
spiritual life, representing the end of suffering for anyone who attains it.
Upcoming introductory courses on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, no need to book, you can just turn up on
the first evening of the course:
Tuesday evenings, 7.30-9.45pm
Next course:
4th September – 2nd October (5 weeks)
Thursday evenings, 7.30-9.45pm
Next course:
6th September – 4th October (5 weeks)
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost?
We do not charge for our classes – but donations to help keep the Centre running are always needed and
welcome. As a guideline, we would suggest £5-£10 for evening classes, and less for the shorter Wednesday
lunchtime class.
Do I need to book?
No need to book for the courses, you can just turn up on the first evening of the course.
What should I wear?
You don’t need any special clothes for meditation, just wear comfortable clothing.
What do I need to bring?
You don’t need to bring anything to the class; we have meditation cushions and stools, and will give advice on
sitting posture as part of the meditation session.
Do I need any previous experience of meditation?
No, the introductory courses and learn to meditate sessions are suitable for complete beginners.
Any more questions? Please e-mail us: info@birminghambuddhistcentre.org.uk

13. The Carers Centre
Birmingham Carers Centre provides support, information and advice to people who care for friends and family
with disabilities. Support Workers based at the Centre provide support to Carers on all issues related to their
caring role. Enquiries range from social services, equipment, finance, care homes, holidays and leisure, to home
care and many more. Support Workers provide Carers with information on topics, factsheets listing specialist
organisations, provide advice, free benefits checks and signpost to specialist organisations where necessary. We
also provide a listening ear to any Carer who needs to offload.
We respect all contacts received from Carers, keep them informed at all times with their enquiries, and
maintain all aspects of confidentiality.
Carers can contact the service by either:
Calling the Carers Helpline on 0121 262 3033
Dropping into the Birmingham Carers Centre, 198 Corporation Street, Birmingham B4 6Q Monday -
Friday 9.00am - 4.30pm
Emailing: helpline@birminghamcarerscentre.org.uk
Attending one of our special events
Events at the Carers Centre
various events and groups are held at the centre on a regular basis. All Carers are welcome, please
bring along the person you care for or a friend. Please check the ‘What’s On’ calendar for up to date
information on our:
Coffee Mornings, information events and sessions, Carers training, Carers outings and activity sessions
Future Events for Carers
Craft and art workshops as well as Thai Chi, extend exercise and yoga classes are currently being
Planned for Carers

14. Patients, volunteers and staff are invited to a range of thought-provoking talks about emotional health as part of the
Trust’s World Mental Health Day celebrations on Wednesday 10 October 2012.
World Mental Health Day is an annual event organised by the World Health Organisation to raise public awareness of
mental health issues and promote open discussion of mental disorders. This year’s theme is Emotional Health &
Wellbeing and at QEHB, the particular focus will be the care needs of patients receiving treatment in the hospital
setting.
The day will include a number of interactive sessions in the QEHB Education Centre from 09:00 to showcase work within
the hospital and the work carried out by our partners in community settings. Patients and staff can listen to engaging
and interesting presentations about looking after our own emotional health and responding to mental health needs of
patients. Paul Jenkins OBE, Chief Executive of Rethink Mental Illness, will deliver the keynote lecture.
As part of this year’s celebrations, the QEHB Clinical Education Team have partnered the Chaplaincy team to organise
the annual chaplaincy lecture at the University of Birmingham.
Rebecca Crane, Director of Mindfulness Research & Practice at Bangor University, will be presenting on the topic
‘Wellbeing, health & mindfulness in society’. Rebecca, a leading expert and published author in the field of mindfulness,
will be joining the World Mental Health Day celebrations at QEHB before moving on to give her presentation at St
Francis Hall, University of Birmingham at 15:00.
To book you seats for World Mental Health Day talks (09:00 – 14:30, Lecture Theatre 3, Education Centre, QEHB), please
contact Susan Breckles:
Email: Susan.Breckles@uhb.nhs.uk
For more information and to reserve seats for the lecture by Rebecca Crane at St Francis Hall, University of Birmingham
(15:00 start) please contact Keith Munnings, University Chaplain:
Email: chaplaincylecture@contacts.bham.ac.uk
Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Hospitals Trust
Patient Advice & Liaison Service Ground Floor Birmingham Treatment Centre Dudley Road City
Hospital Winson Green Birmingham B18 7QH
Stonham will be having a stand as part of World Mental Health Day on the 10th October at
Birmingham & Solihull PCT based on the Ground Floor signposted Patient Support Centre at
City Hospital Birmingham Treatment Centre. 10am – 4pm

15. Stonham Birmingham Mental
Health Carers Support Service
In Partnership with the Mental Health Foundation
We will be hosting an Information Stand on
Wednesday 10th October 2012
World Mental Health Day
2012 World Mental Health Day Theme
DEPRESSION: A GLOBAL CRISIS
10am to 3pm
It will give you an opportunity to chat to a member of our
team
About Carers Services
Carers Rights as well as Mental Health
Our stand will be at the
Birmingham Treatment Centre
Dudley Road
Birmingham
West Midlands
B18 7QH
Talking about Mental Health:
To talk to Birmingham Mental Health Carers contact us on: 0121 380 4949

16. Taking care of yourself as a carer
Carers save the country a massive £119 billion every year - they are a hidden army.
As a result of caring, 10% of carers have high blood pressure, 20% have a back injury and a great
many suffer with anxiety and stress related illnesses. Whilst caring can be very rewarding, many
carers feel extremely isolated, lonely, exhausted and frustrated in their caring role and need to
understand that they are not alone – there are many other people in the same position
It is essential that carers take care of themselves, both physically and emotionally, and there are
many ways that you can do this.
Stonham can provide many and varied opportunities for carers across the county to get together for
mutual support, take breaks, attend a range of groups, go on day trips and offer information and
advice on a wide range of issues such as benefits, mental health, first aid, manual handling and
safe caring.
Carers and the law - your rights
You may not realise, but as a carer you do have rights. The following Acts are the main ones relating
to carers:
Carers (Recognition and Services) Act 1995
Carers of all ages have a right to their own carer’s assessment to discuss their ability to care and
willingness to continue caring, and to identify what support they need.
Carers and Disabled Children’s Act 2000
Carers over the age of 16 who provide regular and substantial care can be assessed for services in
their own right such as direct payments and breaks.
Children Act 1989
This particularly relates to young carers who can be assessed as a ‘Child in Need’ and have an
assessment of their caring needs. A whole family assessment can also be undertaken.
Work and Families Act 2006
This Act gives parents the right to request flexible working
Carers Equal Opportunities Act 2004 and Equality Act 2010
Carers have a right to their own assessment which will take into account their wish to take up, or
remain in education, training or employment and leisure activities. The new Equality Act protects
both the cared-for person and the carer from discrimination ‘by association’ when asking for and
receiving goods and services, shopping and travelling.
Learning As a carer you may
As a carer it is important to have your own interests and
make time to pursue them when you can. Some colleges
want to make sure
run courses for carers in informal environments where you that you are
can find a study programme to suit your learning styles,
caring role and personal aims. Reductions to carers on equipped to
benefits may be available. Visit your local college for
information or the direct.gov website
provide the best
www.birmingham.gov.uk for information on help possible
working and employment.

17. Lasting Power of Attorney If you are a
If you are a carer you may want to consider talking with the person carer you
you care for about obtaining a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).
An LPA is a legal document. It allows them to appoint someone may want to
(over the age of 18) that they trust as an ‘attorney’ to make decisions
on their behalf when they no longer wish to or when they lack the consider
mental capacity to do so. Someone can lack mental capacity if they
have an injury, disorder or condition that affects the way their mind talking with
works. This could mean they have difficulty making decisions all of the
time or that it might take them a long time to make a decision.
the person
you care for
There are two different types of Lasting
Power of Attorney:
about
• Health and Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
obtaining a
• Property and Financial affairs Lasting Power of Attorney. lasting Power
The cared-for person can give specific instructions regarding any future
health treatment (personal welfare LPA), as well as financial matters of attorney
(financial LPA). The amount of power can be limited to certain parts
of their affairs, for example they may want to exclude sale of their (LPA)
house from your power. For more advice on LPA, you can contact
your nearest CAB or visit www.birmingham.gov.uk
Carers and employment
You may be considering giving up work so that you can continue to
As a carer
care, or you may find you cannot work because of the time you
spend caring. Your role as a carer may have ended and you may be
you have
looking for work. No two carers are the same and caring can be
unpredictable.
statutory
Caring and working
rights at
Problems you could face as a carer when working may include:
work to
• Stress and anxiety from constantly juggling work and care
• Tiredness and having to cope with little or broken sleep help you
• Isolation because you have no time to go out and socialise
• Feeling that your colleagues think you are not committed to your meet the
paid work
• Organising care for the person you look after whilst you are at work needs of
However, the benefits of being able to work may include:
• Improved finances now and in the future caring and
• Increased self-esteem
• Better social networks working

18. Date; Tues 23rd October 2012 - Conference Room
Wed 24th October 2012 - Board Room
Time; 11am – 3pm
Where; Stonham Homegroup
Workshop; Mental health First Aid
Facilitator; Owen Harris – CDW
Company; MIND - In partnership with the Cohesion programme
Note; Lunch will be provided
Please inform us if there are any dietary needs
We are hosting several Carers’ events at Stonham Home Group
Deadline for booking the Mental Health First Aid Course will be Friday 19th October
Carer’s event booking form;
I …………………………………………………………………...........................
Would like to attend the Carer’s event for “Mental Health First Aid” on
Tuesday 23rd October 2012 (Conference Room) and Wednesday 24th
October 2012 (Board Room) 11am – 3pm
Please indicate below any dietary needs
………………………………………………………………….….. ………….…..
……………………………………………………………………………………....

19. What to do in an emergency
Emergency Duty Service (EDT) Birmingham Police
For out of hours number Emergency Calls 999
0121 675 4806 Non-emergency calls 101
Including:- Weekdays (Monday to
Thursday) – before 8.45 a.m. and after CERS Carers Emergency Response
5:15pm Weekends – after 4.15 pm on Friday
to 8.45am on Monday Available all Bank
Scheme
Holidays
The Carers Emergency Response Service is a
www.birmingham.gov.uk/edt specialist service which, in the event of an
emergency, provides support to carers and
GP Out-of-hours Service those that they care for in their own home.
The Badger The main aim of the service is to give carers
0121 766 2170 Peace of Mind so that they can go about their
daily lives in the knowledge that should an
www.badger-group.com emergency arise the person they care for will
be looked after. 0121 622 5521
NHS Direct
For 24 hour information and advice on health Housing Emergency Numbers
issues 365 days a year
Calls cost 5p from a BT landline and mobiles Street Intervention Team - is made up of
may be considerably more outreach workers who provide a support service
Tel: 0845 4647 to rough sleepers: 0345 60 20 533
www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
The following organisations offer round-the-
clock services
Samaritans
24 hour confidential and non- Birmingham City Council Careline -
judgemental telephone listening support 0121 303 4205
Tel: 08457 909090 www.birmingham.gov.uk
For hearing aid users:
Tel: 08457 909192 National Missing Persons Helpline
www.samaritans.org 0500 70 07 00
PALS Message Home - 0800 70 07 40
Patient Advice and Liaison Service
For support and information to patients, St. Basils Helpline :– 0800 056 4034
families and carers (men) and 0800 068 7499 (women)
Tel: 0800 389 7671
(24hr free phone) Domestic Violence Helpline
www.pals.nhs.uk 0121 685 8550

20. Financial information The
The government provides a variety of benefits
for both you and the person you care for and government
you should not be reluctant to claim them.
As a carer you may be entitled to: provides a
• Carers allowance
• Carers premium
variety of
• Income support benefits for
• Housing benefit and council tax benefit
• Working tax credit and child tax credit both you and
The welfare benefits system is complicated and
if you plan to claim it is important to speak to the person you
an advice service first as your claim for benefits
may affect the benefits for the person you care
care for and
for.
If you care for someone who would be entitled
you should not
to support, whether or not they choose to take be reluctant to
up that support, then you can ask for someone
from the Birmingham Council ‘Financial Benefits claim them
Team’ to carry out a financial benefits check.
A young carer has the same rights as other
carers under the NHS Community Care Act
1990 and he/she is entitled to an assessment Having a break
of needs.
is more likely
Sandwich Carers to help you
More and more parents are juggling looking after young
cope with
children with caring for older or disabled loved ones –
which is sometimes called ‘sandwich caring.’
caring and give
you necessary
Carers UK and Employers for Carers are conducting this
piece of research to better understand the extra time for
pressure these multiple caring responsibilities have on
families. yourself, time
To find out more or to take part in the survey visit: to recharge
www.surveymonkey.com/s/sandwich_caring
your batteries

21. Contact Beverley Walker:
Bev.walker@creativesupport.org.uk
Heart of Birmingham Hub and Spoke Service Program
64 Water Street, Birmingham, B3 1HP
Established in 1991, Creative Support enjoys a growing national reputation as a specialist provider of mental
health and learning disability services including: supported living, home care, innovative day services,
outreach services, rehabilitation and home care.
Our approach to building strategic partnerships within the community means we successfully forge
partnerships with agencies and purchasers who share Creative Supports vision for developing high quality
services for people with mental health needs.
What we do:
Provide trusting and therapeutic relationships, working within the recovery model to encourage positive
mental health and coping skills. We provide various talking therapies as part of our Recovery and Wellbeing
programme and Individual Personal Development plans. Provide support to members to enhance quality of
life and enjoy opportunities. Provide IT training and development, along with internet to enable full access to
universal services and employment opportunities. Encourage social inclusion by providing information and
support of all wider community events and projects. Provide support and access for hard to reach groups
with outreach work. Provide a weekly programme of social drop-ins, fitness activities, community events, and
employment sessions, benefit advice and support groups. Provide Music for Wellbeing sessions in our fully
equipped music studio. This programme encourages members to use music as a release and a recovery coping
method.
Who can access the service?
Our services are available to any adult of working age (18- 65) with a recognised mental illness who is
registered with a Birmingham G.P. We will be unable to accept referrals for individuals who do not meet this
criteria. Members will be free to attend any of our Hub and Spoke day services which best suits them
regardless of address.
Referral pathways
The response time from receipt of referral is 7 working days. We accept referrals from Primary and Secondary
care providers, Voluntary and Independent organisations as well as self referrals from people with a clinical
diagnoses and who are registered with a local GP. We welcome referrals from individuals from BME
communities, travelling families, refugees and people under 35, although this is not an exhaustive list as we
recognise that Birmingham is on of the most culturally diverse cities in the UK.
What support is provided?
The Patient Survey, completed over a 2year period highlights that over 65% of service users find activities
provided by days centre are very useful, with a further 30% stating they found them useful to a certain extent.
Using these figures the Hub & Spoke Service will provide a focused program of activities and support groups
to ensure members keep this positive structure in the service.
We use a recovery star model to enable our service users to live a meaningful life. We provide psychologically
minded support for service users using a Cognitive Behavioural Approach We will signpost and support
individuals to access education, training and employment opportunities. There will also be opportunities for
members to volunteer at the services. As well as our hubs we have “Spokes” which are groups or activities
that are based within the community. Many of these will be user led, with on-going support and resources
from our Support Time Recovery staff. Some of these community groups include 5-a-side football,
Mens/Womens groups, Social Groups and Physical Wellbeing.

22. Contact Beverley Walker:
bev.walker@creativesupport.org.uk
South Birmingham Hub & Spoke Service Program
888-890 Bristol Road, South Northfield, B31 2NS
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
10.30 Creative Activity 10.00 Relaxation 10.00 Music for 10.30 Cooking & health 10.00 RIVET group 10.00 Drop in socialising
to Group to to wellbeing to & wellbeing to to & signposting
12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 15.00 information
13.00 Physical wellbeing 13.00 Sewing & textile 12.45 Voices group / 12.30 Learn relaxation 11.00 Personal support 12.00 Football group
to & healthy living to group to peer support to techniques to to & goal setting (by to
15.00 Group 14.00 13.45 group 13.00 benefit wellbeing 12.00 appt only) 14.00
14.00 Reading for 13.15 Support group 13.30 Drop in social 12.30 Stress & anxiety 12.30 Community group Due to open on Tuesday
to wellbeing to wellbeing & to group to management to 23rd October 2012
14.45 14.45 managing 14.45 13.30 15.00
mental health
15.00 Creative writing 13.30 Coffee & 13.00 Gardening group 14.00 Relationship 13.00 Carers group
to to community to to support group to
16.00 14.30 awareness 15.45 15.00 15.00
session
13.30 13.30 Info afternoon & 15.00 Women’s 14.30 Faith, spirituality & 12.00 i.T for beginners
to Drop in service to assessments to activity group to mental health to
16.00 Service User & 18.00 support 17.00 15.30 14.00
volunteer led Signposting
service
14.00 Personal support 13.00 Person centred 15.00 Personal support & 14.00 Men’s health &
to & goal setting to planning (appt to goal setting to wellbeing sessions
16.00 Individual sessions 15.45 only) 16.45 Individual sessions 16.00
17.00 Social support Volunteer training 14.00 Confidence
to group (once a month) to building group
19.00 15.00

23. List of Carers Groups in Birmingham
Group Venue Address Type of Frequency When Contact
Group
Carers Kinmos Centre Mixed 1st Friday of 5th October Karen
Group 1 High Street Group Every Month 12pm – Deamer
Kings Heath 2pm 07713 385
B14 7AR 888
Handsworth Fire
Hear for Station 41 Carers 1st & 3rd 4th October Samantha
You Rookery Road Group Thursday of 10am – Bricknell
Handsworth the Month 12.00 0771
B21 9QU 3385892
Hazelwell Street
Stirchley Stirchley Mixed 3rd Thursday 18th Karen
Carers Birmingham Group of Every October Deamer
Group B30 2JX Month 11am – 07713 385
2pm 888
Wellbeing Carer’s Centre
Information 198 Corporation Carer’s 2nd Tuesday 9th October Samantha
Guidance Street, group of Every 1pm – 3pm Bricknell
Sessions Birmingham – Month 0771
(venue to change) 3385892
W.I.G.S
Stechford The Stechford Last Monday 29th Joanne Davies
Carers Club Social of Every October 0121 380
Group 7 Victoria Street, Group Month 7pm - 9pm 4949
Stechford
Sure Start Centre, October 16th 16th & 30th Samantha
Ladies 80 Anthony Road, & 30th October Bricknell
Female
Active Alum Rock, carers November 10.30 – 0771
Focus Birmingham 13th & 27th 12.30 3385892
L.A.F. Group December
18th
Newbridge 130 Hob Moor Last
House Road, Carers with Wednesday 6pm – 8pm Mick Brown
In-patient Small Heath, Patients in of Month 24th 07713 385
Group Birmingham Hospital October 893

24. Group Venue Address Type of Frequency When Contact
Group
Sutton Community Hub Mixed Last Thursday 25th October Mick Brown
Carers Group Farthing Lane, Group of Every 6pm – 8pm 07713 385 893
Sutton Coldfield Month
New-Heights New Heights St Weekly 10 - 12 Joanne Davies
Drop in Johns Centre Mixed Every 3 hours 0121 380 4949
Warren Farm Road, Group Thursday
Arts & crafts Kingstanding Morning
Group B44 0QN
Phoenix Phoenix Centre, Carers Weekly 11am – 1pm Mick Brown
Centre Harrison Road, Clinical Every 07713 385 893
Drop – In (off Erdington Drop - In Wednesday 2 hours Joanne Davies
High Street)
0121 380 4949
Erdington
610 Group 610 Club Carers To Be To be Mick Brown
610 Kingstanding Group Re-launched Confirmed 07713 385 893
Road, Kingstanding Soon
Carers Drop New Weekly 2pm –
In Community Hub Mixed Every other 3.30pm Joanne Davies
Group Farthing Lane, Group Tuesday 2 hours 0121 380 4949
Sutton Coldfield
Stockland Green
Methodist Church Carers Weekly Joanne Davies
Slade Rd, Group 11 – 12.30 0121 380 4949
Time 4U Every Tuesday
Erdington 2 hours
Carers Group B23 7JH
Kings Heath Park
Carers Vicarage Road Walking Second Friday 10am - 11am Karen Deamer
Walking Kings Heath Group of every 07713 385 888
Group Birmingham, B14 Month
7TQ

25. Stonham Regional Office, Unit 3, Holt Court North,
Heneage Street West, Aston Science Park,
Birmingham B7 4AX
0121 380 4949

26. Hear for You
Carers Drop in Support Service
Tailored for carers of people with mental health illnesses
One-to-one support
Information and advice
Focus Groups
Guest Speakers
Social activities
October 4TH & 18TH; November 1ST & 15TH;
December 6TH& 20TH
10am-12pm
Handsworth Community Fire Station
41 Rookery Road
Handsworth
Birmingham
B21 9QU
For information on the group please call
Samantha Bricknell at Stonham Home Group, Birmingham
Mental Health Carer Support Service
0121 380 4949/ 07713 385892

27. W.I.G.S
Wellbeing, Information and Guidance
Sessions
Birmingham Mental Health Carer Support Service is here to offer
support, information and advice for carers on issues such as;
health, housing, benefits, employment and education.
We aim to promote health and wellbeing through the sessions and
work with a range of services to provide up to date information and
guidance.
We are currently offering Get Into Reading; a social outreach
project that uses literature to maintain and improve Mental Health
and Wellbeing. It involves reading of short stories, poems and any
other relevant literature. The aim is to engage members of the
group with reading, discussing and socialising. The goal is to
improve and promote wellbeing. The readings sessions are done in
a relaxed and friendly atmosphere to gain full participation.
October 9TH, November 13TH & December 11TH
1pm-3pm
Carers Centre
198 Corporation Street
Birmingham
B4 6QB
For information on the group please call
Samantha Bricknell at Stonham Home Group Birmingham Mental
Health Carer Support Service
0121 380 4949/ 07713 385892
or
Uroy Kelly 07801130660

28. L.A.F GROUP
(Ladies Active Focus Group)
Female group for carers of people with a mental health
illness
Activities and day’s out
Light Exercise
Relaxation
Guest speakers
October 16th and 30th, November 13th and 27th
and December 18th
10am-12.30pm
Sure Start Centre
80 Anthony Road
Alum Rock
B8 3AA
For information on the group please call
Samantha Bricknell at Stonham Home Group Birmingham
Mental Health Carer Support Service
0121 380 4949/ 07713 385892

29. If you’re aged 11-14 and think you may be a carer then
come to our Young Carers Club!
We provide information and activities to help explore
being a young carer!
Launch: Tuesday 23rd October
2.00pm - 4.00pm
Then: 29th October
& 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th November
Time: 4.30pm - 6.30pm
At: Glebe Farm Community Centre, Glebe
Farm Road, Birmingham B33 9ND
Do you need some time for you?
Do you want to spend some time with
others who understand?
0121 380 4949
https://bhammhcarer.homegroup.org.
uk

30. At the St. John’s Centre, Warren Farm Road
Every Thursday (starting 11th October)
10AM– 12PM
For more information call
Stonham Birmingham Mental Health Carer Support
on
0121 380 4949
or just turn up on the day

31. Stonham Carer Services
Please use for your Unit 3, Holt Court North
Heneage Street West
comments, feedback or Birmingham Science Park
Aston, B7 4AX
complaints & return to…