With the cost-of-living crisis putting more pressure on unpaid carers throughout the North East, support from the Durham County Carers Support charity is helping couples like Geoff and Debbie Walker stay afloat during a difficult time.
Horden-based Geoff and Debbie Walker moved to the area around two years ago after more than a decade in France. Originally from Birmingham, retired bank manager Debbie has a number of health needs and Geoff acts as her carer.
The pair were referred to the charity after spotting details advertised in Easington Health Centre, and by going along to the Tea and Tech drop-in sessions they've been able to properly get to grips with tablets and it's made a real difference to their wellbeing. Now Geoff wants to help set up a community gardening scheme as a way of giving back to the charity which has helped them.
He told ChronicleLive : "My wife needs a lot of care. We decided we'd had enough of France - we're both getting on a bit and over 70 - and we thought we would come back to England and try up here in County Durham. We've been here for about two years.
"Over there in France, everyone seems to look after each other. Debbie has all sorts of illnesses. We've found out she may have heart problems, and we're often having to go to hospital appointments."
He explained that DCCS had been "so very, very helpful to us". "We're not too bad compared to some," he said. "We are coping, we can always try to turn things off to save electricity, but the carer's group is great and has just said 'if you need anything or need to talk, just say' and they will do what they can to help.
"Now I'm also trying to see ways in which I can help others too. I do like gardening and would be keen to set up a community gardening group to help others who might not be able to. We are trying to give a little back after the help we have been given."
Geoff and Debbie have been taught some technology basics at the drop-in sessions, and DCCS were even able to supply a new tablet to help them get online and feel more confident. They both said this had improved their health and wellbeing. Along with the technology drop-in, DCCS offers everything from a listening ear to yoga classes for people caring for loved ones.
“Since the beginning of the pandemic, many have been forced into poverty and with the cost of living crisis this is getting worse by the day," said DCCS chief executive Jenni Wood. "Carers do not recognise themselves in the role so don’t access the support they need, often until there is a crisis.
"Durham County Carers Support is working across County Durham and Darlington to highlight the support available through many face to face and online events, and information days for carers and professionals. We offer help with benefits, finances, counselling, support groups and specialist and have organised a range of events to raise awareness."
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