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What a great day!

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"As carers of someone with a severe mental illness, we tend to put ourselves last. Today is about celebrating our role and having some fun." These words from our Chair, Lindsey Cree, pretty much sum up the Fundraising and Wellbeing day we had at Manchester Carers Centre on Tuesday. I really enjoyed talking to all the stall holders about the services their organisations provide. Sometimes it can feel as if we're on our own but there are many people out there to help us through advocacy, counselling, therapy, training or just a friendly ear. It's good to be reminded of this sometimes.

I didn't get the chance to take up one of the many workshops on offer but I know lots of people enjoyed a hand massage, or mini makeover or even a self confidence counselling session. We all need a bit of me time!

We're thrilled to bits that the event raised £250 for Rethink Manchester Carers in Action. We are 100% volunteer run so all that will go towards helping mental health carers and those with a mental health condition. This wouldn't have been possible without the very generous support of local organisations who donation some fantastic raffle prizes including the Royal Exchange Theatre and Wagamama, the North West Mental Health Research Network who sponsored lunch, and the support of Steve and the team at Manchester Carers Centre. Thanks also to everyone who baked cakes and brought goods for the tombola. And a final very big thanks to Cat and Lindsey for organising it and for everyone who helped out on the day.

As ever it was great to catch up with friends and see some new faces. I think the best thing of all for me is the feeling that we are there to help and support one another. In the end that's what it's all about.

Here are a selection of photos from the day - can you spot yourself?


Manchester Carers Centre team with our Chair, Lindsey

Shamim looking after the all important cake stall!


Chris enjoying the day


Shail with the youngest member of the group!

Lindsey having a pampering session


The Wai Yin Chinese Women Society give us a taste of Tai Chi

Steve getting the tombola going!



More pampering!

Mmm, cake

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