14 Apr 2020

Online Resources For Carers During Lockdown

The current situation is bringing a range of challenges to many of us and it can be very difficult, but by following guidance on social distancing, or staying at home, you are helping to protect yourself, your family, the NHS and your community.

You may be worried about your health or the people that you care for and it is very important that you take care of your mind as well as your body during this difficult time and get further support if you need it.

The Carers’ Centre is here to listen and offer help if you want to talk – contact our advice online on 0191 643 2298.

We know that many people are feeling isolated and lonely or bored and frustrated. We are exploring ways to help carers feel connected and will be delivering activities of our own soon, so check out our website, Facebook pages and Twitter feed.

In the meantime, however we have put together a range of ideas for you to consider.

Social – staying connected

In addition to FaceTime and Skype which many people will be familiar with there are a number of apps which can be downloaded onto a phone or tablet to stay in touch with friends and family. However, it is advisable to carefully check permissions on each app and current guidance as information about using online communications is changing very quickly.

  • Whatsapp – a secure service offering free calls, messages and video calling. https://www.whatsapp.com/
  • Houseparty – a video chat social network which allows users to speak to up to eight friends at a time. It also has built-in games and quizzes. https://houseparty.com/
  • Google Hangouts – an easy-to-use video calling option from Google. Anyone with a Google account can setup a meeting with their friends, with a maximum capacity of 25 people on the free version. https://hangout.google.com
  • Duo – a simple video calling app. https://duo.google.com/about/

 

Wellbeing Resources

Dealing with Stress – Mindfulness

Creativity, Learning and Recreation

Singing

  • Sofa Singers: a 45-minute free weekly online singalong – https://www.thesofasingers.com/
  • Gareth Malone’s new initiative aims to give everyone the opportunity to contribute their voices and instruments to an ambitious digital music project https://decca.com/greatbritishhomechorus/
  • Watch a movie with your family and dress up as characters – See the Centre’s Facebook page and events page on our website for details of our movie nights.
  • Future Learn – offers online courses in a huge range of subjects created by leading universities, business schools and specialist organisations. https://www.futurelearn.com
  • Creative Writing – many organisations (including Future Learn) are offering online courses some of which are free. https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/start-writing-fiction

Tutorials available on YouTube to help you learn a wide range of new things e.g.

Cultural Activities 

Local Activities

National Activities 

International Activities 

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