The Lions Clubs carers weekends are very necessary to family carers who look after family members 24/7. The effects on carers can be very stressful and many carers badly need respite from their caring rolls. Carers suffering from stress or anxiety can avail of counselling. The weekends address many of the problems carers may encounter. Carer’s are made feel at ease throughout the weekends where they mingle and get to know each other in a beautiful tranquil setting in Sligo and Wexford. Throughout the weekends carers discuss their situations in a relaxed environment and relate to each other. Many lasting friendships are made.
Family Carers Ireland and community-based professionals assist Lions Clubs to select carers who will benefit most from the carer’s weekends.
What takes place
The carers Itinerary for the weekend:
• Register at hotel at 3pm on Friday
• Meet and greet at 6pm when the weekend program will be explained
• 2 nights B&B including 2 evening meals, lunch on Saturday
• 2 nights entertainment
• Proceedings start on Saturday with a talk from Family Carers Ireland regarding benefits, entitlements, and training. A representative is also available for private consultations.
Activities on Saturday afternoon vary depending on location, but may include:
• One-to-one counselling
• Reflexology/Mindfulness
• Massage/Beauty treatments
• A creative class
• A local tour
• A stylist gives advice and a fashion show.
The weekends conclude on Sunday after a special blessing for the carers, described by carer’s as spiritually uplifting.
Funded by Lions Clubs
The Lions club’s carer’s weekend is a unique community project that greatly enhances the role of family carers throughout the countryThe weekends are fully funded by Lions clubs around the country and are hosted in Sligo and Wexford annually. Lions Clubs are making a difference by giving family carers the opportunity of respite from their caring roles they so badly need.
