invitation to training about suicide and prevention

Training: Suicide Awareness and Prevention

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An informative session on suicide awareness and suicide prevention.

Join us to learn practical ways to support others. 

This session, led by Fiona Bartley, Senior Health Improvement Officer from NHS Forth Valley, is designed to help carers learn practical ways to support not only the people they care for, but also peers and others in the community. You’ll gain confidence in recognising signs, starting conversations, and responding effectively.

The training is open to unpaid carers residing in the Falkirk district and in Clackmannanshire. 

Details:

🙋For unpaid carers in the Falkirk district and Clackmannanshire, who are registered with the Carers Centre. 
📅 Thursday 21 May
⏰ From 11.00 am to 12.30 pm
📍 In person only at the Carers Centre, 1a Bank Street
📝 Register here by 5 pm on Tuesday 19 May
If you have any questions or you are not registered with the Carers Centre, but would like to attend, please email 📧daynafaulds@centralcarers.co.uk.
dementia programme header showing an older lady with her daughter and giving information about the sessions (last Tuesdays of the month from 10.30 am for Falkirk and Clackmannanshire carers)

Dementia Information Sessions – April to June

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Our new Dementia programme is out!

Come along to learn about topics that can help you care for someone with dementia.

Tuesday 28 April 2026: Dementia – Brain Health

Come along to find out about the research called OMNI “Oral Microbiome & Nitrates” for Brain Health, which is being used to try and help improve the lives of people living with Alzheimer’s Disease. We will look at Nitric Oxide, which is a molecule in our bodies that helps keep our cardiovascular system healthy, and the oral microbiome, which is the community of microorganisms – mostly bacteria- living in the mouth. Come along to find out more about these topics and what the science says you can do to improve them.

Tuesday 26 May 2026: Dementia – Sundowning & Shadowing

You may notice that the person you care for becomes more confused and/or agitated in the late afternoon and evening. This is known as “Sundowning”. Learn about the steps you can take to help reduce sundowning, for their benefit as well as your own. Shadowing is a form of behaviour in which a person with dementia follows their caregiver around. Find out how to manage this behaviour by gaining an understanding of why this occurs.

Tuesday 30 June 2026: Dementia & Friends

Whether it is visiting others with the person you care for, or friends visiting you and your loved one at home, there are many things to consider in making these visits more pleasant and relaxed. Join us for this informative session, where you will gain a better understanding of this condition and increase your confidence about visiting or receiving visitors when caring for someone with dementia.

You can download the programme leaflet from here. You may also be interested in other Care with Confidence sessions, which you can find here.

To book a place or for further information on any of the above, please contact your Training Co-ordinator:

👩  Donna Mulder – Working hours: 21 hours per week (Monday – Wednesday)
📱  07824 381280
📧  donnamulder@centralcarers.co.uk
If you are a carer in Clackmannanshire, you are welcome to join these Falkirk sessions either over Zoom or, if you’d like to attend in person, travel may be provided. Please reach out to Donna for more information. 
care with confidence programme header showing an older gentleman and woman with their daughter and giving information about the sessions (Tuesdays from 10.30 am for Falkirk and Clackmannanshire carers)

Care with Confidence Programme – April to May

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Our new programme has now been released!

Come along to learn about topics that can help you with your caring role. 

Tuesday 28 April 2026: Dementia – Brain Health

Come along to find out about the research called OMNI “Oral Microbiome & Nitrates” for Brain Health, which is being used to try and help improve the lives of people living with Alzheimer’s Disease. We will look at Nitric Oxide, which is a molecule in our bodies that helps keep our cardiovascular system healthy, and the oral microbiome, which is the community of microorganisms – mostly bacteria- living in the mouth. Come along to find out more about these topics and what the science says you can do to improve them.

Tuesday 05 May 2026: Forth Valley – Sensory Loss Advice Service

We will welcome the team from the Forth Valley Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) Sensory Loss Advice Service (SLAS). SLAS is an innovative approach that extends and increases CAB’s ability to inclusively support people with sensory loss across Forth Valley. They help people with sensory difficulties access advice, information, support and representation in relation to benefits, debt, employment, consumer issues, energy, and housing issues. Come along to find out more.

Tuesday 12 May 2026: Canine Partners

Ever wondered how a playful puppy becomes a life-changing assistance dog? Learn how Canine Partners train and carefully match their dogs with disabled people. Learn about the specialist skills these assistance dogs develop, their partnership journey, and the lifelong support provided to ensure each partnership thrives. Come along to find out more.

You can download the latest CwC programme leaflet from here and the Dementia one from here.

To book a place or for further information on any of the above, please contact your Training Co-ordinator:

👩  Donna Mulder – Working hours: 21 hours per week (Monday – Wednesday)
📱  07824 381280
📧  donnamulder@centralcarers.co.uk

If you are a carer in Clackmannanshire, you are welcome to join these Falkirk sessions either over Zoom or, if you’d like to attend in person, travel may be provided. Please reach out to Donna for more information. 

invitation to mental health session about coping strategies and support by FDAMH

Mental Health: Coping Strategies

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Mental Health Awareness Session with FDAMH

Learning about support, coping strategies and mental well‑being.

We’re pleased to welcome Val McInroy, Head of Services at Falkirk and District’s Association for Mental Health (FDAMH), to discuss FDAMH’s services, as well as some mental health coping mechanisms and more.

What to expect:

  • Introduction to FDAMH – who they are, what they do, how they can support you.
  • Understanding Mental Health – recognising signs of anxiety and stress.
  • Practical Coping Strategies – effective tools you can use day-to-day
  • Q&A Time – ask questions, share experiences, and chat in a safe space.

Details:

🙋For unpaid carers in the Falkirk district and Clackmannanshire, who are registered with the Carers Centre. 
📅 Thursday 7 May
⏰ From 12 noon to 2 pm
📍 Carers Centre, 1a Bank Street or Zoom
📝 Register here by 6 pm on Tuesday 5 May
If you have any questions or you are not registered with the Carers Centre, but would like to attend, please email 📧 daynafaulds@centralcarers.co.uk
invitation to a talk with Brad McKay, former Falkirk FC player, in the Centre,

Brad McKay: How football changed my life

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An inspirational story you can’t miss!

We are pleased to welcome Brad McKay, a former Falkirk FC player, to the Centre.

Join us for a conversation with Brad McKay, who has previously played for Falkirk FC (as well as Hearts, St Johnstone, and Inverness Caledonian Thistle, to name a few). He will tell us about how football was his outlet and prevented him from going down the ‘wrong path’. He will also discuss the coaching he does now and how to get involved.
This is an in-person session only.

Details:

🙋For unpaid carers in the Falkirk district and Clackmannanshire, who are registered with the Carers Centre. 
📅 Monday 4 May
⏰ From 2 pm to 3 pm
📍 Carers Centre, 1a Bank Street – in person only
📝 Register here
If you have any questions or you are not registered with the Carers Centre, but would like to attend, please email 📧 daynafaulds@centralcarers.co.uk
invitation to help with transitions drop in cafe taking place in May

May Drop-in Cafe: Help with Transitions

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Parents and unpaid carers of young people with additional support needs, pop in for a chat!

Join us if the child you care for is approaching or going through transitions, aged between 14 and 25, and lives in the Falkirk area.

Fiona Douglas, Transitions Coordinator for Falkirk Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP), is hosting monthly ‘Drop-in Cafés’ in the Carers Centre (1a Bank Street, Falkirk, FK1 1NB). You can drop in between 10 am and 1 pm on the dates below with questions or for a chat about transitions. These sessions are open to unpaid carers registered with the Carers Centre.

✅ Ask questions about support available
✅ Learn how young people are supported in their transitions beyond school

Details:

📅 Thursday 7 May
🕒 From 10 am to 1 pm
📍 Carers Centre, 1A Bank Street, Falkirk, FK1 1NB
❗We would appreciate if you could book your place here so that we can anticipate numbers, or just feel free to drop in on the day. 

If you have any questions or you are not registered with the Carers Centre, but would like to attend, please email daynafaulds@centralcarers.co.uk.

The next sessions will take place on Thursdays between 10 and 1pm on the following dates:

  • 4 June
  • 16 July
  • 6 August
  • 17 September
  • 15 October
  • 12 November
  • 10 December
invitation to carers essentials session on 6th May

May Carer Essentials

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Carer Essentials are back, and you are invited!

This session is designed to inform and empower unpaid carers in Falkirk & Clackmannanshire so that they can care with confidence.

You’ll learn about:

  • Your rights as an unpaid carer
  • What we do at the Centre and how we can help
  • What other local services and support are available
  • What an Adult Carer Support Plan (ACSP) is and how you can benefit from it
You’ll also get to meet our teams and have the opportunity to ask your questions!

Ideal for those who:

  • are new to caring for a relative or friend
  • have registered with the Carers Centre in the last 6 months
  • or just would like a refresher of what we do and how we can help

Details:

📅 Wednesday 6 May
⏰ From 12.30 pm to 2 pm
📍 Carers Centre or Zoom
📝 Register here
For more information or to enquire about future sessions, please email 📧daynafaulds@centralcarers.co.uk
invitation to safeguarding and neurodiversity session in the centre or on zoom

Safeguarding and Neurodiversity

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Join us for an informative and supportive session designed especially for parent carers.

We are delighted to welcome two speakers from Falkirk Council.

Gillian Campbell, Quality Improvement Officer – Safeguarding & Wellbeing, and Lyn McLafferty, Educational Psychologist – Children’s Services, will give:

  • an overview of supports available for families
  • guidance on children & neurodiversity
  • strategies for supporting positive mental health & coping with anxiety
  • an opportunity to ask questions

This session is a great chance to build understanding, gather practical tips, and feel more confident in supporting your own and your child’s well-being.

Details:

🙋For unpaid parent carers in the Falkirk district and Clackmannanshire
📅 Tuesday 21 April
⏰ From 12.30 pm to 1.30 pm
📍 Carers Centre, 1a Bank Street or Zoom
📝 Register here by 6 pm on Sunday 19 April
For more information or to enquire about future sessions, please email 📧 daynafaulds@centralcarers.co.uk
invitation to a series of sessions related to the topic of mental health

Mental Health Sessions at the Centre

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Let’s focus on mental health this May!

Join us for a month of learning, well-being, and connection!

Throughout the month, we are offering a series of supportive, engaging sessions designed to help unpaid carers boost their well-being, build confidence, and connect with others. We warmly invite you to join us at any of the sessions below, and take some time for yourself to learn, reflect, and feel supported.

These sessions are open to unpaid carers in the Falkirk district and in Clackmannanshire, who are registered with the Carers Centre. To register with the Centre, please follow this link. Once you’ve completed the registration, come back to this page to sign up for the events using the relevant links below.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please email Dayna Faulds, Training Co-ordinator: daynafaulds@centralcarers.co.uk

 

Monday 4 May

2 pm to 3 pm

 How Football Changed my Life: Brad McKay, former Falkirk FC Centre-Back

Join us for a conversation with Brad McKay in the Carers Centre. Brad has previously played for Falkirk FC (as well as Hearts, St Johnstone, and Inverness Caledonian Thistle, to name a few). He will tell us about how football was his outlet and prevented him from going down the ‘wrong path’. He will also discuss the coaching he does now and how to get involved.

📍In person only at the Carers Centre, 1A Bank Street, FK1 1NB

Register here: https://forms.office.com/e/jrsJh3cHhV
Thursday 7 May

12 noon to 2 pm

FDAMH: Mental Health Coping Mechanisms

Val McInroy, Head of Services at Falkirk and District’s Association for Mental Health (FDAMH) will discuss FDAMH’s services, as well as some mental health coping mechanisms and more.

  • Introduction to FDAMH – who they are, what they do, how they can support you.
  • Understanding Mental Health – recognising signs of anxiety and stress.
  • Practical Coping Strategies – simple tools you can use.
  • Q&A Time – ask questions, share experiences, and chat in a relaxed space.

📍 In person at the Carers Centre, 1A Bank Street, FK1 1NB, or Zoom

Register here: https://forms.office.com/e/tcMKA3WdT8
Thursday 21 May

11 am to 12.30 pm

 Suicide Awareness & Prevention: Fiona Bartley

Fiona Bartley, Senior Health Improvement Officer from NHS Forth Valley is returning to deliver some crucial information regarding signs of suicide and suicide prevention. This session is designed to help carers learn practical ways to support not only the people they care for, but also peers and others in the community. You’ll gain confidence in recognising signs, starting conversations, and responding effectively.

📍In person only at the Carers Centre, 1A Bank Street, FK1 1NB

Register here: https://forms.office.com/e/M2dSFGQJWS
Monday 27 May

12.30 to 2.30 pm

 ASN – Sensory & Communication Needs Overview

Alice Grant, Teacher & Trainer from Falkirk Council’s Children’s Services will be delivering an engaging overview on sensory & communication needs. Although Alice specialises in supporting children with additional support needs, the information is relevant for people of all ages, making this session ideal for any carer.

Alice will provide a practical, accessible overview of the following:

✅ Sensory Needs ✅ Distressed Behaviours ✅ Regulation & Stimming ✅ Model of Child Engagement

📍 In person at the Carers Centre, 1A Bank Street, FK1 1NB, or Zoom
Register here: https://forms.office.com/e/6Vt7dkpQbq

 

invitation to a training session about financial well-being on 8th April from 12.30pm

Introduction to Financial Well-being

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Learn about strategies that can help improve your finances.

Join us as we welcome Rebecca Ketterer-Young, Senior Financial Well-being Officer, from Money Advice Scotland.

Rebecca will be hosting an interactive virtual financial well-being session. Time will be given for Q&A. This course examines the essential elements of financial well-being and explores the challenges and barriers that prevent many individuals from achieving it.

Topics include:

  • The lasting impact of the cost-of-living crisis
  • Digital Exclusion, poverty, and domestic abuse.
  • Practical strategies to overcome barriers and enhance financial well-being.

The session will provide you with valuable insights into the link between financial well-being and overall well-being.

🙋For unpaid carers in the Falkirk district and Clackmannanshire who are registered with the Carers Centre. As an adult carer, you can register here.
📅 Wednesday 8 April
⏰ From 12.30 pm to 1.30 pm
📍 This session is fully remote and will take place on Zoom. If you are unable to access Zoom for any reason, you are welcome to join us in the Centre’s activities room, where you’ll be able to watch the training on our screen with other carers.
📝 Register here for the training by 6 pm on Monday 6 April
For more information or to enquire about future sessions, please email 📧 daynafaulds@centralcarers.co.uk