Edinburgh Archives - Carer Events & Training

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This event is open to carers residing in or caring for a person in Edinburgh and Midlothian.

When: Friday 29 August, 10am – 12pm

About the event: We will be joined by Alan from the Into Work team who will provide information on local initiatives and financial wellbeing to help you maximise your income. There will be an opportunity to ask questions and arrange a one-to-one session.

COST OF LIVING WORKSHOPS – Helping you increase household income and cut costs during this difficult time. They also impart valuable energy efficiency information and completing one to one income max assessments and “better off in work” calculations.

Delivered by: Alan Bartlett from Into Work

Instructions for attending:

This event will be delivered IN PERSON. Details of the event will be sent to you via email once you have registered. Please note, if you do not get an email with details for the event you have registered for please contact VOCAL on the details below.

Please note that some events require a minimum number for them to run or may be cancelled near the time of the event, we will contact you if this is the case.

Booking info:

If this event is showing as full, please email carertraining@vocal.org.uk or call 0808 196 6666 and we will add you to our waiting list and contact you if a space becomes available.

Online bookings end 24 hours prior to the event. If you wish to attend and book within this time, please call 0808 196 6666 or email carertraining@vocal.org.uk.

This event is open to carers residing in or caring for a person in Edinburgh and Midlothian.

When: Thu 28 Aug, 1pm – 2:30pm

About the event: Join Sharon and Iain, VOCAL’s Carer Brokerage Practitioners, for an overview of Self-directed Support (SDS), your rights and the responsibilities which come with managing a care package. We will also look at the responsibilities local authorities have to assess your needs as a carer as well as the person you care for.

Explore what Self-directed Support (SDS) is, who it is for and how to access it. We will also discuss where you can get further help, updates and new developments in relation to SDS.
By the end of the session you will have:
• An explanation of Self-directed Support, eligibility criteria and the process for requesting an assessment
• Examples of the four Self-directed Support options and their pros and cons
• Information on next steps and accessing independent support. If you would like to email us any questions you would like answered at the session, please email carertraining@vocal.org.uk prior to the session. Please note, there will also be an opportunity to ask questions at the session.

Delivered by: Iain McGregor and Sharon Leitch, Carer Support Practitioners at VOCAL

Instructions for attending:

This event will be delivered ONLINE. Details of how to join the event will be sent to you via email once you have registered. Please note, if you do not get an email with Zoom details for the event you have registered for please contact VOCAL on the details below.

Please note that some events require a minimum number for them to run or may be cancelled near the time of the event, we will contact you if this is the case.

Booking info:

If this event is showing as full, please email carertraining@vocal.org.uk or call 0808 196 6666 and we will add you to our waiting list and contact you if a space becomes available.

Online bookings end 24 hours prior to the event. If you wish to attend and book within this time, please call 0808 196 6666 or email carertraining@vocal.org.uk.

This event is open to carers residing in or caring for a person in Edinburgh and Midlothian.

When: Thursday 28 August, 11am – 12:30pm

About the event: Join Jenny, a qualified Cold Water Therapist, for an introduction to the basics and safety of Cold Water Therapy. Relax and absorb the experience as she guides you step-by-step into the water. Learn how to use your breathing and understand the benefits and safety considerations of outdoor dipping and swimming.

The session is not about distance swimming. It is to enable you to safely and comfortably experience the therapeutic benefits of Cold Water Therapy. Hello! I’m Jenny, The Cold Water Therapist – Wild Swimming Guide, Qualified Cold Water Therapist, STA Open Water Safety holder, Stress Reduction Practitioner and Mental Health Trainer (and survivor!). The past few years have been tough. A combination of hugely stressful events led to one almighty burnout in December 2020. I felt completely broken, beyond repair. My brain was in utter overdrive, and I could barely function. Then I found the magic of cold water. My first dip silenced the brain chatter and I realised I had found a way out – a means of control. I now work to share the many benefits of cold water therapy and outdoor swimming – whether it’s fun and adventure you crave or a mindful self-care practice. Participants will be asked to complete a medical/risk form prior to this session. This will be sent to you by VOCAL prior to the session.

We will supply some equipment and take a look at what else you need to bring here: https://www.thecoldwatertherapist.co.uk/what-do-i-need

Delivered by: Jenny, Cold Water Therapist/Wild Swimming Guide, thecoldwatertherapist@gmail.com

Instructions for attending:

Please note that some events require a minimum number for them to run or may be cancelled near the time of the event, we will contact you if this is the case.

Booking info:

If this event is showing as full, please email carertraining@vocal.org.uk or call 0808 196 6666 and we will add you to our waiting list and contact you if a space becomes available.

Online bookings end 24 hours prior to the event. If you wish to attend and book within this time, please call 0808 196 6666 or email carertraining@vocal.org.uk.

This event is open to carers residing in or caring for a person in Edinburgh and Midlothian.

When: Tuesday 26 August, 6pm – 7:30pm

About the event: Caring for an adult child with Additional Support Needs (ASN) can be both deeply rewarding and challenging, particularly as their needs change over time. As a carer, you may be juggling not only practical concerns, but also the emotional complexities of the person you care for’s future. This session offers practical tools and a space to connect with others who understand your journey.

This session will provide exactly that—practical, actionable strategies that can make a real difference in your day-to-day caring. It’s not about rehashing the basics of autism; it’s about sharing solutions and insights based on 25 years of experience to help you support your loved one’s independence, manage health concerns, and feel more confident about both your futures.
What you can expect:
• A chance to connect with other parents facing similar challenges, because caring can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be.
• To leave the session with tools and strategies that you can start using right away to make life easier and build your confidence around future planning.
Key topics:
• Recording: How you can share the vital information you have gathered over the years with others, so individuals can learn about the needs, preferences and routines of your child.
• Everyday strategies for promoting independence and enhancing life skills.
• What is available to help manage outings to familiar and new events and places.
• Health and wellbeing tips, including solutions for common issues like sleep struggles and managing personal hygiene.

This isn’t a formal training—it’s a facilitated session where you’ll get the chance to share experiences with other parents and gain practical advice.

Delivered by: Gaynor Caldwell.
In 1999, Gaynor’s second child was diagnosed with autism and additional support needs—a diagnosis that fundamentally shaped her life. Parenting two very different children brought its own set of challenges, but her desire to better understand how to support her autistic son led her on a journey of learning. She immersed herself in everything she could find, eventually earning a degree in Autism from Manchester University. Gaynor then went on to work for the National Autistic Society, and over the years, she contributed to several charities and carer centres, delivering training that blends both personal and professional experience.
More recently, Gaynor has worked with Scottish Autism, and her training continues to evolve alongside her own life experiences. As she navigates the present and plans for the future, Gaynor remains committed to supporting families and carers in meaningful ways. For more information about Gaynor and to access some helpful blogs and resources, please visit her website at www.gaynorcaldwellautism.com

Instructions for attending:

Please note that some events require a minimum number for them to run or may be cancelled near the time of the event, we will contact you if this is the case.

Booking info:

If this event is showing as full, please email carertraining@vocal.org.uk or call 0808 196 6666 and we will add you to our waiting list and contact you if a space becomes available.

Online bookings end 24 hours prior to the event. If you wish to attend and book within this time, please call 0808 196 6666 or email carertraining@vocal.org.uk.

This event is open to carers residing in or caring for a person in Edinburgh and Midlothian.

When: Tuesday 26 August, 10am – 11:30am

About the event: Join our monthly meet up and chat with other parent carers, have a cuppa and find out more about local services.

No diagnosis required. Tea, coffee, cake provided at no charge to carers. No need to attend every month, book separately each month. Kinship carers welcome. A VOCAL representative with be in attendance (with their VOCAL t-shirt on). If you need to contact them on the day, their mobile number is 07950648755. Please note, this mobile number is only used for events and activities purposes only and not monitored outwith event days.

Delivered by: Johan Henderson, Carer Support Practitioner at VOCAL Midlothian

Instructions for attending:

Please note that some events require a minimum number for them to run or may be cancelled near the time of the event, we will contact you if this is the case.

Booking info:

If this event is showing as full, please email carertraining@vocal.org.uk or call 0808 196 6666 and we will add you to our waiting list and contact you if a space becomes available.

Online bookings end 24 hours prior to the event. If you wish to attend and book within this time, please call 0808 196 6666 or email carertraining@vocal.org.uk.

This event is open to carers residing in or caring for a person in Edinburgh and Midlothian.

When: Monday 25 Aug, 6pm – 7pm

About the event: Gain essential insights into how trauma affects behaviour, relationships, and care needs. This workshop equips carers with trauma-informed strategies to create safe, compassionate, and supportive environments. Learn how to recognise trauma responses and respond with empathy, clarity, and confidence.

Delivered by: Jeanne-Marie Lee, Carer Training Officer at VOCAL Edinburgh

Instructions for attending:

Please note that some events require a minimum number for them to run or may be cancelled near the time of the event, we will contact you if this is the case.

Booking info:

If this event is showing as full, please email carertraining@vocal.org.uk or call 0808 196 6666 and we will add you to our waiting list and contact you if a space becomes available.

Online bookings end 24 hours prior to the event. If you wish to attend and book within this time, please call 0808 196 6666 or email carertraining@vocal.org.uk.

This event is open to carers residing in or caring for a person in Edinburgh and Midlothian.

When: Monday 25 August, 12:30pm – 1pm

About the event: Come along to this online session to find out about mobility aids to support you in your caring role. Treasure Tree is our shop and social enterprise where you can buy scooters, wheelchairs, hoists and more at discounted rates.

Delivered by: This session will be delivered by Debbie Greenough, VOCAL’s Business Development Manager. Debbie oversees VOCAL’s Treasure Tree and Holiday Homes programmes.

Instructions for attending:

Please note that some events require a minimum number for them to run or may be cancelled near the time of the event, we will contact you if this is the case.

Booking info:

If this event is showing as full, please email carertraining@vocal.org.uk or call 0808 196 6666 and we will add you to our waiting list and contact you if a space becomes available.

Online bookings end 24 hours prior to the event. If you wish to attend and book within this time, please call 0808 196 6666 or email carertraining@vocal.org.uk.

This event is open to carers residing in or caring for a person in Edinburgh and Midlothian. 

When: Wednesday 10 September, 6pm – 7:30pm.

About the event: This group is a welcoming space for those caring for a child aged 16 or older. This informal group is held monthly and provides a safe space for open discussions about the most important issues to you, to meet other parent carers and hear from regular guest speakers.

No diagnosis required. Kinship carers welcome. No need to attend every month, book separately each month. This group will be on the second Wednesday of every month.

Delivered by: Johan Henderson, Carer Support Practitioner at VOCAL Midlothian.

Instructions for attending: 

Please note that some events require a minimum number for them to run or may be cancelled near the time of the event, we will contact you if this is the case. 

Booking info: 

If this event is showing as full, please email carertraining@vocal.org.uk or call 0808 196 6666 and we will add you to our waiting list and contact you if a space becomes available. 

Online bookings end 24 hours prior to the event. If you wish to attend and book within this time, please call 0808 196 6666 or email carertraining@vocal.org.uk. 

This event is open to carers residing in or caring for a person in Edinburgh and Midlothian. 

When: Tuesday 9 September, 6pm – 8pm.

About the event: Body image and self-esteem are closely linked and with the rise of social media, children are becoming more aware of how their body is perceived much younger in life. During this session, we will explore the link between body image and mental health, and how we can talk more neutrally about our bodies at home. Special focus on children and young people with Additional Support Needs (ASN).

In this session, you will learn more about:
• Children and young peoples’ mental health in Scotland
• Self esteem, body esteem and the difference
• Developing positive narratives about body image in our settings
• Social media and the impact on young people
• Emotional literacy and talking about feelings
• Exploring resources relevant to the topic

Delivered by: Corrie McLean. Corrie has been working in education for a decade, developing their specialist skills in sexual health and inclusive learning. They work closely with vulnerable individuals with ASN and parents and carers who support them.

Instructions for attending: 

Please note that some events require a minimum number for them to run or may be cancelled near the time of the event, we will contact you if this is the case. 

Booking info: 

If this event is showing as full, please email carertraining@vocal.org.uk or call 0808 196 6666 and we will add you to our waiting list and contact you if a space becomes available. 

Online bookings end 24 hours prior to the event. If you wish to attend and book within this time, please call 0808 196 6666 or email carertraining@vocal.org.uk. 

This event is open to carers residing in or caring for a person in Edinburgh and Midlothian. 

When: Tuesday 9 September, 5pm – 6:30pm.

About the event: If you employ or are planning to employ Personal Assistants using a Direct Payment from the local authority, join VOCAL and Lothian Centre for Inclusive Living (LCiL) to find out about employer responsibilities, safe recruitment and day-to-day management of support, as well as information and advice for you.

By the end of the session you will have:
• A better understanding of employer responsibilities and safe recruitment practice
• Advice on supporting the day-to-day management of Personal Assistants
• Information on next steps and accessing independent support

‘Employing a Personal Assistant – the recruitment process’ will take place on Tuesday 23rd September 1pm to 2:30pm. This session looks into the recruitment process in more depth. Click here for more information and booking. Please note, you do not need to attend both sessions.

Delivered by: Barsha Shrestha, LCiL

Instructions for attending: 

Please note that some events require a minimum number for them to run or may be cancelled near the time of the event, we will contact you if this is the case. 

Booking info: 

If this event is showing as full, please email carertraining@vocal.org.uk or call 0808 196 6666 and we will add you to our waiting list and contact you if a space becomes available. 

Online bookings end 24 hours prior to the event. If you wish to attend and book within this time, please call 0808 196 6666 or email carertraining@vocal.org.uk. 

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