Coventry Carers' bulletin

This newsletter contains the latest news and messages from Coventry City Council and information about local community groups and partners who are offering local support.

In this issue:

• Welcome to October's bulletin
• Bi-annual statutory carers' survey
• Do you know about Carers' Direct Payments?
• Cost of living support
• Support for adults affected by someone else’s drug or alcohol use – ADFAM Coventry
• Black, African and Caribbean Communities Admiral Nurse Service
• Carer support at UHCW
• Carers' Trust carer drop-ins at UHCW
• Carers' Trust Social Group
• My Time - New Contributor
• Carers' Trust walking group
• Carers' Trust care home support group
• Carers' Trust Heart of England activities – November 2025
• Carers' Trust Heart of England drop-ins – November 2025
• Mencap - Meet, eat and natter
• The Coventry Irish Society - Support group
• The Coventry Irish Society - Wellness walks
• Let's Talk Movement survey
• Warm Home Discount Scheme - know the facts!
• Coping with caring course
• NHS App survey - Have your say!
• Sign up or contact us

Welcome to October's bulletin

Autumn has well and truly arrived, the leaves have changed colour and started to fall and the days are shorter and getting colder. Many people are experiencing concerns around the cost of living at this time and that's why we have included details of support that is available across the city.

We will also be celebrating Carers' Rights Day on Thursday 20 November, so watch this space to find out how we celebrated our wonderful carers in the city.

You will find useful information about Carers' Direct Payments and the Admiral Nurse service for people from Black, African and Caribbean communities to provide culturally sensitive dementia clinical advice, support and guidance.

Carers' Trust also look forward to welcoming you to their activities and drop ins across the city. We have also included information about activities being hosted by the Coventry Irish Society, so please do take a look.

We hope you enjoy reading this month's bulletin. Take care.

For those who were celebrating, we want to wish you a Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas, we hope you had a wonderful celebration, we have loved seeing the city lit up, with fireworks, candles and lamps.  

Bi-annual statutory carers' survey

The Survey of Adult Carers is a national statutory survey developed by the Care Quality Commission and the Department of Health and Social Care, which all Local Authorities in England with social care responsibilities must carry out.

This survey has been developed in order to learn more about:

• whether the support and services received by carers are helping them in their caring role and to live a life outside of caring
• what carers think of any services provided to the person they are caring for

A previous survey was conducted in 2023 to 2024, so we are now looking to compare results, understand the current needs of carers and the quality of support and services provided.

Coventry City Council’s Adult Social Care Services will send out between 800 to 1000 anonymous postal questionnaires between the months of October and November 2025 to a random sample of carers.

All answers will be treated as strictly confidential and will not affect support or services received, both now or in the future. The results will be then sent to NHS Digital for national analysis.

The Department of Health uses the survey to identify strengths and weaknesses and to:

• help measure the impact of the national carers strategy
• monitor the effectiveness of services and support provided

We will use the results of the survey to make sure our local strategy is focusing on the right priorities. It will help us improve and develop services and support to carers throughout Coventry.

If you do receive this survey, we would be grateful if you could please respond as your feedback is incredibly valuable and will be used both locally to Coventry and nationally to better understand and improve support available.

Thank you in advance to anyone who may participate in this survey.

Do you know about Carers' Direct Payments?

A carers' direct payment is a payment to you as a carer to help support your own wellbeing.  It is often paid as a one-off payment, but can also be on-going dependent on your needs. 

How do I find out if I'm eligible?

A carer's direct payment will discussed and explored as part of your Carers' Wellbeing Assessment. As part of this assessment we explore whether you have eligible needs as outlined in the care and eligibility guidelines. This explores whether your caring role is having a significant impact on your wellbeing and the different areas of your life where you might benefit from support. The assessor will look at how your needs can be met, whether this is with information and advice, other support services or a carer's direct payment.  

If you want to find out more about carers' direct payments we have a helpful leaflet that explains it in more detail.  

Cost of living support

Across Coventry, more and more people are feeling the pressure from the increasing cost of living. If you’re struggling financially or concerned about the future, getting help early can make a big difference. Lots of support is available from many different organisations to help you manage the cost of living pressures.

Support for adults affected by someone else’s drug or alcohol use – ADFAM Coventry

We’re pleased to highlight the support available from ADFAM, a national charity working to improve life for families affected by someone else’s substance use. ADFAM now provides a dedicated service in Coventry, offering free, confidential support to informal carers and family members impacted by a loved one’s drug or alcohol use. Whether you're looking for someone to talk to, peer support, or practical advice, ADFAM’s Coventry service is here to help. The service includes: One-to-one support sessions Group support and peer networks Information and guidance tailored to carers’ needs A safe, non-judgmental space to share experiences You can find more information and refer/get in touch by checking their website. If you know someone who might benefit from this support, please share this information with them.

Black, African and Caribbean Communities Admiral Nurse Service

Even though it is estimated that about 25,000 people living with dementia in the UK are from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, research has shown that there are differences and unequal access to dementia services for members of these communities. To this end, Dementia UK has set up an Admiral Nurse service for people from Black, African and Caribbean communities to provide culturally sensitive dementia clinical advice, support and guidance. The service offers free, confidential 45-minute telephone or online appointments on Tuesdays and Thursdays to be booked by carers, families and people living with dementia for advice and guidance on various aspects of dementia. Appointments can be booked through Black, African and Caribbean Communities Admiral Nurse clinics - Dementia UK. The service also undertakes outreach programmes to improve dementia awareness in Black African and Caribbean communities. Please email to discuss any opportunities for outreach activities or to learn more about the service.

Carer support at UHCW

If your loved one is staying in hospital, support for you in your caring role is available. You may be entitled to a carer's ID card that can identify you as a carer, provide you with a point of contact and support for the following:

• Open visiting times especially to support during mealtimes
• A bed to support you overnight
• Access to drinks at the beverage bay or from the hostess trolley
• Free meal voucher
• Free parking if you have a blue badge or are staying with a child

To request a UHCW carer's ID card, please speak with a Carers' Trust Hospital Liaison Advisor or a member of the ward or department team.

To find out more about caring for a loved one in hospital please visit UHCW’s webpage.

Carers' Trust carer drop-ins at UHCW

As a carer it's vitally important that you are involved in decisions concerning the person you care for. 

When extra help is needed, medical professionals such as hospital staff and nurses may be called in to offer support.

We can help support you through this process, meaning you're able to communicate effectively with professionals, and understand exactly what to expect upon the person you care for being discharged from hospital. 

If you would like to speak to a Wellbeing Advisor about hospital carer support, please come along to one of our weekly drop in sessions on either Tuesday afternoon or Thursday morning in the PALS office located in UHCW main reception. 

Alternatively please email the team. 

Carers' Trust Social Group

This month we are visiting the Mead Gallery for the Tea Bowl Punk exhibition – the first UK solo exhibition of internationally celebrated Japanese ceramic artist Takuro Kuwata.

We will meet on Thursday 6 November at 12:30pm – 2pm at the Mead Gallery at Warwick Arts Centre, University Warwick, Coventry CV4 7FD

For more information please contact us via email or call us on 024 7663 2972, option 1.

My Time - New Contributor

Earlier this year we starting working in partnership with My Time, working with local hotels, businesses.  So far we've had carers staying at Coombe Abbey, stays at the Feather Bed Cottage Bed and Breakfast, the Crown Plaza in Birmingham and lots of different opportunities such as spa treatments, afternoon teas and historic walking tours.  We're pleased in the last month that new opportunities with CV life will be available in November.   How does it work? Carers are matched with suitable activities based on their interests, providing them with experiences that they may otherwise not have the opportunity to enjoy. These breaks are designed to be accessible and enjoyable, giving carers a chance to relax and rejuvenate. How do I see what activities are available?  You can view a selection of opportunities available throughout the month on the My Time website - This Month's Breaks | MyTime Any carer can register with the scheme by emailing mytimecoventry@localsolutions.org.uk.

Carers' Trust walking group

Carers' Trust Heart of England are inviting you to attend their walking group being held on Tuesday 18 November  from 12noon - 1pm at the War Memorial Park, Kenilworth Road, Coventry CV3 6PT.

Meeting point: Outside the War Memorial Park Visitor Centre. 

Stay active, enjoy a gentle stroll and meet new friends at our friendly walking group!

For more information please contact us via email or call us on 024 7663 2972, option 1.

Carers' Trust care home support group

Do you care for someone who has moved into a care home, or could this be a possibility in the near future? Join our friendly peer support group to meet others in your situation, no matter which home your loved one resides in. 

The group will take place on the first Wednesday of every month from 1:30pm to 3pm at Victoria Mews Care Home, Coventry CV3 2DF.

The next group will take place on 5 November 2025.

For more information please contact us via email or call us on 024 7663 2972, option 1

Carers' Trust Heart of England activities – November 2025

To attend a session, it is important that you are registered with Carers' Trust Heart of England. Most of our groups are based in Coventry City Centre and the location will be confirmed when booking.

For more information please email the team, or give them a call on 02476 632972 option 1. You can also find further information on their website.

Carers' Trust Heart of England drop-ins – November 2025

For more information please email the team, or give them a call on 02476 632972 option 1. You can also find further information on their website.

Mencap - Meet, eat and natter

Join our relaxed and friendly well-being group in Coventry

What is meet, eat and natter?

• A social group for adults with a learning disability, family member, and carers
• Enjoy food and drinks while meeting new people and a have friendly chat

Location:

• Costa Coffee, Cross Point Business Park, Gielgud Way, Walsgrave, Coventry CV2 2SZ

Date and time

• Monday 24 November 2025 from 12noon - 2pm

For more information call 07472 638704 or drop Pam an email. 

The Coventry Irish Society - Support group

Join The Coventry Irish Society’s “Betty’s Friends” Group

A friendly and informative support group for those living with or supporting those with early memory loss.

Join us for different weekly activities:

• gentle exercise sessions
• memory games
• arts and crafts
• music
• and always friendly supportive chat over a cuppa

We meet every Monday from 12noon – 2pm on the second floor of Eaton House, Eaton Road, Coventry CV1 2FJ

Next session : Monday 3 November 2025

Every session encourages conversation, laughter and social interaction.

For more information or to register email us or give us a call on 024 7625 6629

The Coventry Irish Society - Wellness walks

Join us on our weekly wellness walk every Wednesday with the Coventry Irish Society

• Simple low impact way to improve overall wellbeing
• Reduces stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression
• Boosts mood, energy and mental clarity
• Encourages mindfulness and relaxation

We meet at the War Memorial Park, Kenilworth Road, Coventry CV3 6PT from 12noon – 1pm, engaging in a 30 minute or one hour walk. Followed by a catch up in the café.

Please meet us at the park and ride stop at the main entrance.

For further details please email us or give us a call on 024 7625 6629.

Let's Talk Movement survey

Coventry City Council and partners from across the city are supporting Let’s Talk Movement – a campaign to help shape a more active future for everyone in Coventry. 

Over the next few weeks, we’re asking residents to share their views on what helps them to be active – and what gets in the way.  

We know that movement means different things to different people. It could be a walk in one of Coventry’s parks or green spaces, trying out a new sport, being active with your children or setting personal fitness goals. 

Whatever being active looks like for you, your feedback will help us create a future for Coventry where movement is easier, more accessible and part of everyday life. 

The insights gathered through this short survey will help develop a shared city-wide strategy to support physical activity and wellbeing across all communities. 

Have your say today   Survey closes 2 November.

Your say. Your way. Your move. 

Warm Home Discount Scheme - know the facts!

There has been an increase in fraudulent activity targeting individuals about the Warm Home Discount scheme so please be aware of the following: There is no need for individuals to apply for the Warm Home Discount scheme in England and Wales. Individuals will not be contacted by the UK Government or Ofgem asking for bank details   Individuals should not look out for texts If individuals are eligible, they should look out for a physical letter by post between October and December 2025 confirming they will get £150 off their electricity bill. Physical letters will be sent by Warm Home Discount Scheme, PO Box 970, PRESTON, PR2 0FX Individuals are advised not to click on links provided in suspicious texts or emails.  Please take a look at the Governments website  for further information.

Coping with caring course

This course aims to raise awareness and understanding of how the caring role can impact on many aspects of your life. The course looks at ways you can look after yourself as well as continuing to support and promote the independence of the person you care for. Learning outcomes: to increase awareness of the roles and responsibilities of being a Carer in the UK and to look at how these roles affect us to consider and develop some techniques for coping and helping ourselves as well as those we care for to look at your rights as a Carer and places to seek additional support   Aimed at: anyone who is currently caring for a friend or family member and is experiencing increased stress. Course tutors: staff from Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust and Heart of England Carers Trust. When: Tuesday 4 November 2025 from 1pm to 3pm online. Course duration: Two hour session.

NHS App survey - Have your say!

The NHS App has been around for a while and is being more widely used across NHS care services. We would like to hear how this app is working for the people of Coventry. Your feedback will help the NHS understand what’s working well and where changes are needed. We will be able to report it back to the service providers to improve the service for everyone.  The survey deadline is 31 December 2025.

Are you carer aware?

Would you like to know more about adult carers and young carers?

If so we have two courses that are available to help increase your knowledge. Both courses are free and you can access them in your own time. Please take a look and we hope you find them helpful:

• Adult Carer Training
• Young Carer Training 

Sign up or contact us

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You can also sign up or view previous bulletins from our Carers' website.

If you have any comments or wish to contribute something to the next bulletin, please let us know by contacting us at carers@coventry.gov.uk.

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