Lewis-Manning Hospice Care provided a wonderful day of respite for a small group of carers when they enjoyed a day at a beach hut on Swanage Beach.
The carers swapped their usual routine for a sunny day adventure at Swanage Beach, giving them the chance to unwind, laugh, and even dip their toes in the sea.
The day kicked off with carers dropping off their spouse at the Lewis- Manning Day Hospice in Poole, where the hospice clinical team took over caring duties, and the local Dorset patients were set to enjoy a day full of clinical support, games, arts and crafts, and a delicious lunch, ensuring they had just as much fun as their carers.
As for the carers, they headed to Swanage Beach and to a beach hut which was to be used as their base for the day and as the location of their monthly support and bereavement carers group.
Family Support & Bereavement Lead at Lewis-Manning, Jo Sharkey said, “What a wonderful day we all enjoyed, it was incredibly relaxing and just what the carers needed. We devoured delicious fish & chips, someone bought some Prosecco and another some fresh strawberries, it was such a treat.
“The loveliness of it all was just being able to sit and do nothing but enjoy each other’s company. There were lots of shared conversations about what is happening in their lives, but the day out provided time out for the carers not to be responsible for anything or anybody for a short time, have food put in front of them and do something normal! Things that so many of us perhaps take for granted but I was so mindful of giving these people some time out, which they’re not used to as many are 24/7 carers for their loved ones at a particularly difficult and emotional time. The hours passed so quickly too!”
One of the carers Val commented, “When you’re a carer, it’s like you’re sitting in a hole, and you just want someone to come and sit with you. Lewis-Manning is my rock. The compassion and care are so special. I have been attending the group for around two years.”
Another carer Alison said,
“As a carer, you are working 365 days a year, 24/7 with no support. There are no holidays. Who would want that job? Lewis-Manning is the only part of my life that has stayed the same for the past six months.”
Carla, a carer added, “We have no judgment, and it’s a safe space here on this day out. Hopefully, at the end of the day we will remain friends.”
Anyone interested in finding out about the Family Support and Bereavement Service at Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is urged to visit https://lewis-manning.org.uk/bereavement-family-support/