Bags of care, Workington
The Children’s Learning Disability and Behaviour Support Service in North Cumbria received funding for 200 Bags of Care, a support tool for parents/carers whose child is receiving care in the services.
“They represent the message we are trying to give from a peer perspective; that parents/carers are seen and they are important,” says Senior Peer Supporter Kristina Whitworth. The bag’s contents include a journalling notebook, a pen with a positive quote, biscuits, bath salts, lip balm, hand cream, motivational quote cards, eye masks, hot chocolate, a magnetic book mark, support leaflets and a mindfulness colouring sheet.
The Peer Support team work closely with the families/carers of children receiving care in the service, utilising their lived experience to support, empathise and empower. “When a peer hands over a bag it demonstrates we are there for them and they are always well received.” says Kristin.
“We look forward to the continued positive impact they will have.”
Following a previous successful bid, the roll out of the bags showed just how important that personal touch is, with feedback from parents including:
“I’m loving this colouring book! It’s small enough to fit in my bag so I can take it everywhere! I’ll find a use for all my wee treats. I’m still taken aback as it’s such as thoughtful gift.”
“I’ve had a look in the bag and the stuff you gave us is lovely. I will enjoy a colour when I get 5 mins… lots of lovely bits in there, thank you, it’s very kind.”