AN “ESSENTIAL lifeline” for carers is under threat after the Government withdrew funding.

Funding for the free workshops run by Oxfordshire Carers’ Forum will cease in September, leaving organisers to seek new ways to keep it going.

The Caring with Confidence programme supports carers and introduces them to others who face similar challenges.

Since September, 10 programmes – each consisting of seven sessions – have been run by The Oxfordshire Carers’ Forum across the county supporting over 120 carers.

Sessions have been held at The Wesley Memorial Church Hall, Oxford, The Mill Arts Centre, Banbury, The Charter, Abingdon, and Richmond Care Village, Letcombe Regis, near Wantage.

The pilot scheme did have a contract with the Government until March next year.

Valerie Thwaites, Oxfordshire Carers’ Forum’s Project Manager for Caring with Confidence, said: “It is an essential lifeline, Not only because of the information it provides but also for the reduction in isolation for carers.

“Carers have said it has made a huge difference to their lives and to the life of the person they care for due to the information shared, the opportunity to have a break from their caring role and to make strong bonds with new friends.

“Now, due to the Government’s termination of contracts nationally, the programme is in jeopardy.”

Carer Josie Penney, 72, said: “Having the support for myself and the fact that John (my husband) was being looked after on the same premises enabled me to attend and not worry. I wish I had known about this programme sooner.”

Care Services Minister Paul Burstow said: “Getting the right support to carers is a priority. I believe this money can be spent smarter which is why I plan to offer more support to the carers organisations, and for training.”

Richmond Villages has let the group run sessions free of charge, and Mrs Thwaites added: “The beauty of running the programme here is that carers who do not wish to leave the person they care for can bring them along to be cared for on the premises.”

Free, confidential advice is available from the county’s carers centres:

  • Oxford: 174a Cowley Road, Oxford, 01865 205192; email: info@carerscentre.co.uk
  • North and West Oxfordshire: 27 Horsefair, Banbury, 01295 264545; carer line: 08457 125546; email: info@ccnwoxon.org.uk
  • South and Vale: 5 Lydalls Road, Didcot, 01235 510212, email: carers@svcarers.org.uk