Unpaid carers connect and find support in new sanctuary

The venue is accessible to all and has excellent facilities.

Unpaid carers are being invited to a sanctuary created to offer connection and comfort with others.

Community group Stronger Together is now offering the space at a new garden at The Ashcroft in Whitworth. Meeting every Monday, the group provides a space for carers to connect, share experiences, and find comfort.

Founded by local carers Angela and Kath, Stronger Together has become a vital lifeline for unpaid carers. This compassionate initiative emerged from the recognition that caring for a loved one can often be a socially isolating and lonely experience.

One of the key aspects of Stronger Together is its inclusive and flexible nature. There is no charge to join, and no commitment is required. Recently, Stronger Together received funding from the National Lottery for a special gardening project.

With this support, Angela, Kath, and the group have transformed the outside space of The Ashcroft into a beautiful garden for the entire community to enjoy. Kath said: “We were granted the funding, and we were over the moon.

"The money will help our group by letting us update the outside area of The Ashcroft. This will help with the health and well-being of many of our group members who have dementia and the carers who need a quiet place, even if it’s only for ten minutes."

The outside area will be accessible to the local community to take any herbs and vegetables, and sit and listen to the sensory sights and sounds of the environment.

Angela added: “We chose The Ashcroft as it is where we hold our regular group meetings and events. The manager and staff are so supportive and help in any way they can.

"The venue is accessible to all, it is a large welcoming safe space and has excellent facilities. The main area of the garden is where the patio doors open out onto the decking.

"This is a lovely area that now our members can utilise and can be used for The Ashcroft events."

Angela and Kath extend a heartfelt invitation to all unpaid carers in the area: "Come join us at The Ashcroft every Monday at 11am."