Whilst the holidays can be joyous and festive, for some, it is ‘just another day’ . We understand that this time of the year can be a difficult time, stirring up some uncomfortable feelings. So here are some ways we can stay connected.
"Christmas means something different to all of us."
It can give us peace of mind to know that support can be just a phone call away. So, to make things a little easier, we have put together the support we're offering over Christmas, as well as helpful emergency numbers to have at hand.
Plus, Christmas doesn't have to be "picture-perfect". Carers in our community have kindly shared tips on how they made Christmas work for them.
1. Our Christmas Day Cuppa
For the past four years, we have thrown our very own Christmas Day Cuppa for unpaid carers! Filled with lots of laughs, connection over Zoom, and a great start to the day - whether we celebrate Christmas or not.
"Our Mobilise community is here to support us all over the Christmas period."
If it is your first joining one of our cuppas, warm up to the idea by learning more about them here.
This year on Christmas Day, we also hosted a Christmas Cuppa at 11am.
Where carers were able to bring festive treats, where their festive outfits, share a cracker joke or two, and connect with other carers across the UK.
We'll be doing another one next year - so look out for our weekly emails!
2. Browse the Mobilise Library
We have an online library filled with over 30 carers' guides and practical tips. Some are filled with light humour, and others are where we talk about things people don't often talk about, such as carer guilt and resentment.
From getting support and taking a break to the warning signs of carer burnout. Simply pick a guide that best suits your situation.
3. Subscribe to our weekly newsletters
Sign up to receive a weekly carer digest email every Monday morning, inspired by tips and tricks from carers in our community - from our guide on discounts for carers to the 14 warning signs of carer burnout.
Simply stay in the loop by subscribing to our newsletter.
Do you know someone who might find this helpful?
Please share this blog with them and your community, and help us to connect and support more unpaid carers over Christmas (and beyond).
4. Connect with us in the Mobilise Hub
Whether we're already a member of the Mobilise Hub or are yet to join, all carers are welcome to join in on the different daily conversations we have.
It's a one-stop shop for those of us looking after a family member or friend, a completely free online space for us to connect. Plus, we have numerous helpful resources on there to scroll through.
Come and say "Hi' to us on our social platforms
Plus, we are active on Twitter so feel free to start conversations on any of our posts and threads. Or, pop by our Instagram page, and leave your thoughts in the comment section. We'd love to see you there.
5. Emergency and Helpful Numbers (Christmas Edition)
If you're in a crisis situation or need 24-hour support, visit our Emergency numbers and 24 hour UK helplines guide.
We also have a list of national organisations that are offering practical and emotional support over the Christmas period, which we can view, edit and download.
NHS - Non-urgent.
Number: 111
Hours: 24 hours
Police - Non-urgent
Number: 101
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week
Samaritans
For whatever you are going through.
Number: 116 123
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week
Childline
For younger people under 19, whatever the worry.
Number: 0800 1111
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week
Childline counsellors are also available to speak to online through 1-2-1 chat and via email.
The Silver Line
Information, friendship, and advice to older people.
Number: 0800 470 8090
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week
Mind
For better mental health information and signposting.
Number: 0300 123 3393
Hours:
24th December 9am - 6pm
29th December 9am - 6pm
30th December 9am - 6pm
31st December 9am - 6pm
Age UK - Advice Line
Number: 0800 678 1602
Hours: 8am - 7pm, 7 days a week
Local Carers' Service
We can also look up what help is available for us with our local carers service using this nifty tool.
Local Council Helpline
Simply enter your postcode and you'll be directed to your local council's website.