Cornwall Carers Service
News & Events
Our Monthly Carers Group is Growing – And We'd Love You to Join Us
12.11.25
When we launched our new Monthly Carers Support Group back in October, we honestly weren't sure what to expect. But the response has been brilliant, and it's become clear just how many carers in Cornwall need spaces like this. What started as an idea to bring carers together has quickly become a thriving community where people can connect, share experiences, and find the support they need.
Firstly, we’d like to say thank you!
That first session in October brought 15 carers through the doors of All Saints' Church in Truro – some came with friends or family, others arrived on their own, but everyone left having had proper conversations with people who get it. The feedback we got was really encouraging, with people saying how much it meant to have somewhere they could talk openly about what caring is actually like.
Then November happened, and we had about 20 people turn up! It was such a mix too – some faces we'd met through the service before, a few who'd been with us in October and wanted to come back, and several people who were completely new to the group. What really struck us was how many carers said they were just relieved to have Teresa and myself there to chat to. That's exactly what we wanted this group to be about.
How It’s Been Going
More Than Just a Chat Over Coffee
Look, we're not going to pretend the tea and coffee doesn't help break the ice. But what's happening in these sessions goes way beyond that. We've had conversations about grants, Carers Needs Assessments, getting support from different services – all the practical stuff that can feel overwhelming when you're trying to figure it out alone.
We've Had Some Brilliant Speakers
We've been lucky enough to have some fantastic people join us. October saw Vicky from Age UK (Kernow Gateway), Teresa from the Alzheimer's Society, social prescribers, and dementia practitioners all giving up their time.
Age UK came along to November's session and they were absolutely fantastic – so good in fact that they've offered to come back again. Having different professionals there means carers can get specific advice for their situation, all in one friendly setting rather than having to chase around multiple places.
Quick Shout-Out to All Saints' Church
We have to mention Julian and everyone at All Saints' Church on Tresawls Road. They've been so supportive, and the space they provide is perfect for what we're doing – big enough for a good group but still feels cosy and welcoming. Their servery means we can sort refreshments easily, and they've really got behind what we're trying to achieve.
December's Meeting
Whether you’ve attended our previous sessions or this would be your first time – please do come along to our next one. We’d love to see you.
When: Monday, December 2nd, 10:30-11:30am
Where: All Saints' Church, Tresawls Road, Truro TR1 3LD
No need to book or anything formal like that. Just turn up when you can. Whether you're looking after a partner, your mum or dad, a friend, or a neighbour – you'll be welcome. It's a judgement-free zone where people actually understand what you're going through. If you fancy staying on afterwards, there's Singing for the Brain which some people really enjoy.
You Don't Have to Do This Alone
Caring can be really isolating. You can feel like you're the only person dealing with what you're dealing with, even when that's not true at all. That's what this group is here for, to remind you that support exists, that other people get it, and that looking after yourself isn't selfish, it's essential.
If you want to know more before December, give us a ring:
Cornwall Carers Service: 01736 756655
Teresa Greenaway (Alzheimer's Society): 01872 278053
We'd genuinely love to see you there.
Whilst the tea, coffee, and biscuits certainly help create a relaxed atmosphere, these sessions are about so much as more than refreshments. We had meaningful conversations which covered everything from grants and Carers Needs Assessments to navigating support across multiple services. Importantly, we're seeing carers connect with each other, sharing their own experiences and advice in a way that only someone who truly understands can.
One of the most valuable discoveries from our first session was that many carers simply didn't know they were entitled to a Carers Needs Assessment. These conversations matter, and the information and guidance shared can make a real difference to someone's caring journey.
