Carers from across Sandwell can make a positive difference to their life and that of the person they care for by attending free, local group sessions which have just launched in the town.

Caring with Confidence is a free programme which helps carers aged 18 and over build on their own strengths, share experiences and gain useful information, ideas and tips about looking after someone to help them decide how to make positive changes to their caring role.

Sessions are being run in partnership with Expert Patients Programme CIC (EPP CIC) and are being held in Smethwick on Mondays throughout August and September. 

Carers can choose how many of the seven sessions in the programme to get involved with depending on their own caring situation and needs, and all are encouraged to attend the introductory session - Finding Your Way. This helps carers look at what matters to them and decide which of the other six sessions they might want to do. Topics these include cover, health and wellbeing, coping, resources, emergencies at home, taking time out and communicating effectively with professionals and service providers.  Help with travel and alternative care costs is also available.

Sonia Sandhu, Project Team Manager from EPP CIC who run Caring with Confidence sessions in Smethwick said: “If you are looking after a friend or relative, Caring with Confidence can help you to make a positive difference to your life and that of the person you look after. These sessions are led by experienced facilitators, many of whom are themselves carers or have experience of working with carers.

“The seven sessions cover a variety of topics and issues that may help you and sharing stories and advice with other carers could help you make positive changes to your caring role.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about Caring with Confidence sessions or to register can contact EPP CIC on 0800 783 8944 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

For more information on the Experrt Patients Programme visit www.eppcic.co.uk