Kingsbridge and Saltstone Caring is celebrating on behalf of local residents thanks to a boost from the Big Lottery Awards for All fund. The local charity plans to expand its offer to help families look after a loved one when they need a short break.
Chairman Derek Weaving explained: “We already provide some carer relief but in a small way. This pot of money will help us to spread the word and recruit more volunteers to sit with people or take them out so their nearest and dearest can pop out, attend to other household business or enjoy some time to themselves. It may mean the son or daughter can have a morning or afternoon off from visiting, knowing mum or dad is entertained and happy. We can be the eyes and ears of a family member who lives a distance away, providing feedback and updates as required.”
The charity is going from strength to strength and was delighted too to receive a generous donation last month from the Pavers Foundation which owns Herrings Shoes in support of the good work it carries out. It will also be the recipient of monies raised at the popular Stokenham Fete on 6 and 7 July and continues to enjoy the support of Thurlestone Golf Club where it is the charity of the year. The Golf Club is hosting a fashion show at 2pm on Tuesday 25 June.
Interim Manager Jane Bray said: “KASC couldn’t continue without the support it receives from organisations and individuals. We always have around 100 clients with referrals arriving all the time and we regularly hear how well people are doing thanks to the motivational input from their volunteers.
“All our volunteers receive full training and we are going to arrange dementia and compassionate friend education soon in conjunction with Dementia Friendly Communities and St Luke’s Hospice with whom we work very closely.
“We provide an important role because there are so many socially isolated and lonely people in our area and sometimes a visit from a volunteer is the only visit they receive. For couples having a chance for one of them to take a short break can mean they are able to carry on living together at home for longer. These are real issues and we are pleased to be able to help where we can.”
Kingsbridge and Saltstone Caring goes from Aveton Gifford and Loddiswell, across to Thurlestone Malborough and Salcombe, and over to to Stokenham, Slapton, East Portlemouth and East Prawle. It arranges regular fundraising events and the next is a cream tea and carriages event on Sunday 23 June. If you are interested in any of the events, in providing a helping hand or you would like some help yourself, you can contact the office on 01548 854588 or email info@kascare.uk.