THE first Tavistock delegates have 'graduated' from St John Ambulance Devon's ground-breaking new Carers' Support Programme, as the course is rolled out around the county. The group (pictured right) completed a course held over six weeks, providing help and information on topics such as managing continence, advice on back care and prevention of injury and falls, basic skills in first aid and stress management. There are 72,000 carers in Devon, most of whom have little experience prior to taking on such a great responsibility and lifestyle change. Emma Healey, St John Devon's community development manager, said: 'This is among the first of the free courses we have run in West Devon and it has been a pleasure to meet this group of carers and hear about the things that are important to them. 'We have had four really stimulating sessions and I hope they have gone away feeling much more positive and empowered. We were pleased to run the course with the support of the South Devon Carers Consortium.' David Wirrich, chief Executive officer of St John Ambulance Devon said: 'St John Ambulance Devon is very proud to be offering this service to carers who are a very under-appreciated group of people who contribute a vast amount to society as a whole.' Tavistock participants said . . . 'Everyone felt able to ask questions and make comments.' 'The handouts were excellent, it was a very good course — I learnt a lot.' 'A very useful coursea which doesn't swamp you with unnecessary info and encourages carers to swop ideas too.' To be eligible for the free course, people have to be over 18 and care for someone over the age of 18, unpaid. The programme features four sessions of three hours over a four to six week period. Refreshments and lunch are provided free. St John is also looking for support and sponsorship from local businesses, the public sector and carers' groups. Anyone who can offer a suitable venue is also asked to contact Emma Healey (see below). For further information about the course contact Emma Healey, community development manager, St John Ambulance, 7-9 Marlborough Court, Manaton Close, Exeter, EX2 8PF, tel 01392 822646.
