The Government has partnered with a wellness centre to provide individual counselling and drop-in support to caregivers on the island.

The new partnership between the Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors and Solstice will run from tomorrow until October 17.

Launched during World Alzheimer’s Month, observed each September, Solstice said the programme recognises the important role caregivers play in supporting family members, friends and loved ones living with significant health conditions, disabilities or changing care needs.

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, said: “Caring for a loved one can be both deeply meaningful and incredibly demanding.

“Whether someone is caring for a family member living with dementia, Parkinson’s disease, recovering from a stroke, managing a mental health condition or facing another ongoing health challenge, we recognise that caregivers need care and support too.

“Through the Caregiver Support Initiative, our partnership with Solstice will provide caregivers with accessible individual counselling and drop-in group support, with no out-of-pocket cost to eligible participants.”

Kelly Madeiros, managing director and cofounder of Solstice, said: “Caregivers give an enormous amount of themselves to support the people they love, and it is equally important that they have somewhere to turn for support, understanding and connection.”

The wellness centre said if someone has taken on a meaningful caregiving role and is in need of support, they are encouraged to contact Solstice to discuss whether the programme suits them.

The centre said the programme combines Government funding, applicable health insurance coverage and a significant community contribution from Solstice to make mental health and emotional support more accessible to the island’s caregivers.

Under the arrangement, Solstice said it has “significantly reduced” its usual service costs.

Appointments will be offered flexibly, including in-person and online, during lunchtime breaks, after work and on Saturdays, subject to availability.

Solstice will also provide eight free drop-in caregiver support groups during the programme.

The groups will provide a welcoming and confidential space for caregivers to connect with others who understand the experience and demands of caring for another person, share experiences, receive emotional support and discuss strategies for maintaining their own wellbeing.

• For more information contact Solstice on 292-3456 or send an e-mail to info@solstice.bm