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Supporting Carers in Whitburn: A Lifeline During National Dementia Action Week

As we recognise National Dementia Action Week (19-26^th May), a West Lothian action group is shining a light on the vital support available to unpaid carers and disabled adults in the community. Hosted weekly on Thursdays at Xcite Whitburn, Carers of West Lothian are holding drop-in sessions which aim to create a much-needed space for connection and advice with the local community.

The sessions are open to all unpaid carers and disabled adults in Whitburn and all of the wider West Lothian area. They offer  an opportunity for individuals to  speak in person with a dedicated support worker about any aspect of their caring role or disability. Whether someone is already receiving support, or is just beginning to explore what help is available, the sessions are designed to meet people where they are.

“For some, it’s about learning what services exist. For others, it’s a chance to get tailored advice on specific challenges they’re facing,” says Stephanie Norris, our session facilitator. “We’re incredibly grateful to Xcite for helping us reach people locally and provide this space.”

The support on offer spans a wide range of services, including:

• Adult Carer Service: Supporting unpaid carers over 18 across West Lothian.
• Adult Disability Service: Tailored support for adults with learning and/or physical disabilities.
• Young Carer Service: Helping carers aged 8–18 who support family members with additional needs.
• Parent Carer Support: Dedicated assistance for parents of children with additional support needs, both under and over 16.
• Memory Information Support Team (MIST): A crucial service for families dealing with memory issues, especially pre-diagnosis or without post-diagnostic support.
• Self-Directed Support (SDS): Independent advice for those accessing or considering social care.

In addition to these services, the sessions provide guidance on a variety of topics such as Power of Attorney, benefits and grants, employment rights for carers, and signposting to other local resources like befriending services and day centres.

The sessions are alternating Thursday mornings and afternoons – please contact reception on 01501 229210 to find out when the next session is being held.  If you can’t get along to Xcite Whitburn, you can visit the links below to find online resources:

Carers of West Lothian About CoWL

Cyrenians http://www.cyrenians.scot

Dementia Action Week – intervening in early memory loss

MIST (Memory Information Support Team) – Carers of West Lothian     West Space | MIST (Memory Information Support Team) – Carers of West Lothian

Don't forget that our Ageing Well programme also includes a range of activities - it aims to increase the expectation of good health in later life with activities that improve physical health, mental health and wellbeing. The emphasis is on meeting new people and making physical activity accessible and enjoyable.