CARERS from across from Kirklees have taken part in a project to tell their stories.
Their words will be part of a digital story-telling project paid for by Kirklees Council Adult Services. They will be aired on Friday, June 13, during Kirklees Carers Week.
The stories will also go on the council’s website.
They will feature the following:
Gavin, who talks about his son, who has cerebral palsy
Cynthia, who talks about her husband, who died of Parkinson’s disease
Tahrina, who cares for her parents
Winifred, whose daughter has learning disabilities
Christine, whose son has cerebral palsy but is hoping to go to university
Elizabeth, who has a daughter with a learning disability.
The digital story-telling project aimed to reach people who had not used computers in this way before.
It enabled them to make their voices heard and learn ICT skills in the process.
Winifred said: “It’s been a different experience, something we’ve been taught; using a computer with no previous experience. It’s been very interesting and enjoyable. Everyone has been so kind and helpful.”
Tahrina said: “I found it extremely rewarding. Initially it was quite daunting but I felt more comfortable as the workshop progressed.
“Thank you for all the help and patience.”
The project tapped the creativity of people who had not had the opportunity, confidence or skills to do so in the past.
Clr Margaret Bates, Kirkleess Cabinet’s member for adult services, said: “I think it’s great that people who are carers have been given the chance to tell and share their lives with others while learning new skills on computers.
“It takes a lot of courage to tell your story and record it in your own words with personal pictures full of memories, some sad and some happy.
“I hope that other carers will benefit from this work when they see the digi stories and realise they are not alone.
“We hope they take the opportunity to find out what help and support is available to them from Carers Gateway and its partner agencies.”
