Virtual wellbeing groups offer 'me-time' for parents and carers across Worksop

A North Anston children’s hospice is delivering a dose of calm and serenity to local families in the form of virtual wellbeing groups.
Charlotte Lee and Gracie.Charlotte Lee and Gracie.
Charlotte Lee and Gracie.

The groups, which took place at Bluebell Wood Hospice before the pandemic, offer families the chance to relax and unwind while sharing experiences and supporting one another.

The popular workshops were a big hit with parents and carers, who enjoyed the chance to have a break from the pressures of looking after a child with complex needs, while learning new skills including aromatherapy, chocolate making, yoga and much more.

Now the workshops have gone virtual, with parents and carers gathering on a Zoom call while all the necessary items are delivered straight to their door.

Charlotte Lee, whose 11-year-old daughter Gracie has a rare life-shortening condition that affects the nervous system called leukodystrophy, said the first session provided a rare and much-needed break from the ‘military operation’ of caring for a child 24/7.

She said: “It’s just so lovely to have the chance to talk to others who are in a similar situation, and not just about our children.

"Even if it’s just chatting about silly things and having a laugh, it makes such a difference.

“It’s something nice and relaxing that you can do for yourself, and I can’t wait for the next one.”

With a weekly coffee morning and a book club also being launched this month, parents and carers will have even more opportunities to take some ‘me-time’.

Sherry Leigh, family support coordinator at Bluebell Wood, said: “Our groups are designed to give the families in our care the chance to prioritise themselves, which is something they rarely get the chance to do.

“Reducing isolation and positive peer support is incredibly important at the best of times, and we know many of the families we support have been shielding for such a long time. That’s why our support groups are so empowering for parents and carers.”

Any businesses that want to work with Bluebell Wood as part of the wellbeing groups can contact Sherry on [email protected].

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