The Family Group is a support group set up by staff on Ward 4 who wanted to ensure that family members of patients also received support that they need.
Often family members will have been or exist to be carers for patients who are staying on the ward. This can take a toll on their own health and wellbeing, whilst they are also managing the difficulties surrounding having their relative or friend in hospital. Whatever their individual circumstances, everyone is welcome and it is a relaxed and informal group.
The Family group meet every Monday – tea and cake is available as they chat about their experiences, often sharing tips and strategies ranging from emotional tools to cope with the upsetting nature of dementia, to practical advice on getting prescriptions.
Anyone is welcome to come to the group and share their story, or simply listen and feel that they are in a safe space amongst people going through similar experiences.