To mark the significant milestone of Carers of East Lothian turning 30 this year, we organised a wide range of events and activities throughout the year to celebrate with carers, volunteers, staff and supporters.
Our regular support groups welcomed new people along to special anniversary events, including archery sessions, afternoon teas, day trips, art workshops and a very informative session with a consultant psychiatrist.
One of these special events was a poetry workshop organised by our Mental Health Carer Support Group and led by local poet Philippa Ramsden. During the session, participants worked together to create a patchwork poem, exploring the symbolism of the pearl and how it connects to both caring and celebration.
The pearl was chosen because it is the traditional gift for a 30th anniversary. The idea was suggested by a member of our Carers Panel, who proposed using the pearl as a theme throughout our anniversary year. We loved the concept because pearls, much like unpaid carers, are immensely valuable yet often remain hidden from view.
We were delighted that Jenny, one of the group members who helped create the poem, shared it with attendees at our Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 28 October. We are also pleased to share it here so that others can enjoy and reflect on the words created by the group.