Our training programmes aim to equip and empower you as a carer.
Training is very important for carers for a number of reasons.
It provides you with the essential skills and knowledge you need to care safely. It helps maintain your wellbeing and can prevent you from becoming ill yourself. It can also help reduce feelings of isolation and provide an opportunity for you to do something for yourself.
As well as running our own training courses we also aim to signpost you to other training providers so you can access training to suit your needs:
The NHS ELFT Recovery College provides training for people experiencing mental health issues and their carers. Read more about the Recovery College here.
FutureLearn provides a wide range of online courses designed by leading universities for a wide range of learners. They have many courses that help increase your knowledge about conditions and your caring role.
"About Me: Building Resilience for Caring" is an online training package especially created for unpaid carers by Carers UK. Click here to learn more.
Training is very important for carers for a number of reasons.
It provides you with the essential skills and knowledge you need to care safely. It helps maintain your wellbeing and can prevent you from becoming ill yourself. It can also help reduce feelings of isolation and provide an opportunity for you to do something for yourself.
As well as running our own training courses we also aim to signpost you to other training providers so you can access training to suit your needs:
The NHS ELFT Recovery College provides training for people experiencing mental health issues and their carers. Read more about the Recovery College here.
FutureLearn provides a wide range of online courses designed by leading universities for a wide range of learners. They have many courses that help increase your knowledge about conditions and your caring role.
"About Me: Building Resilience for Caring" is an online training package especially created for unpaid carers by Carers UK. Click here to learn more.
Adapting to Caring
Carers in Bedfordshire is not responsible for the content delivered by an external provider.
1-to-1 Smartphone / Tablet / Laptop training
Did you know that everyday technology can help you as a carer? Using Skype, on-line shopping or booking a GP appointment online. To find out more book a 1-1 IT training session for some advice, tips and instructions on technology.
Mondays, 10.00am – 1.00pm
Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Nicola West, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0300 111 1919
Wednesday, 2 & 4th week, various times
Leighton Buzzard Library
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Anna Kidman, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 07772 231208
Wednesday 4 July, 10.00am - 12.00pm
Benefits Workshop
Citizens Advice Bureau
A basic introduction to the benefits you may be entitled to.
Dunstable Fire Station
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Anna Kidman, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 07772 231208
Thursday 13 September, 2.00 – 4.00pm
Meet the Team
Have you recently registered with Carers in Bedfordshire? Then please come along to the afternoon to find out the range of services we offer. Our team of support workers will also be available to talk to.
Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Nicola West, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0300 111 1919
Tuesday 18 September, 10.30am-12.30pm
Meet the Team
Have you recently registered with Carers in Bedfordshire? Then please come along to the morning to find out the range of services we offer. Our team of support workers will also be available to talk to.
Flitvale Garden Centre, Flitwick Road, Westoning, MK45 5AA
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Dawn Ray, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tuesday 18 September, 10.30am to 12.30pm
Maintaining your Relationships whilst Caring
Whilst caring your relationships can change and may become difficult. This workshop looks at how you can maintain healthy relationships with your loved one, family and friends.
Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Nicola West, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0300 111 1919
Caring Safely
Carers in Bedfordshire is not responsible for the content delivered by an external provider.
Ageing Well: Falls
This free online course explores why people fall, discover practical methods to reduce the risk of falling and recognise when to seek expert help
FutureLearn
Wed 20 June, 1.00-3.00pm
Managing Worries by ELFT
Leighton Buzzard Scout Hut
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Sharon Rogers – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 07772 231192
Wed 20 June, 1.30-3.30pm
Managing Worries by ELFT
Sea Cadets HQ, Station Road, Biggleswade
Fee: Free (donations welcome)
Contact: Dawn Ray - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 01767 315079
Monday 25th June, 10.00 – 12.00pm
Improving my sleep
Bedford
Begin to recognise unhelpful sleep cycles, and what small changes could improve your sleep.
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information
Wednesday 29th August, 10.00 – 12.00pm
Improving my sleep
Leighton Buzzard
Begin to recognise unhelpful sleep cycles, and what small changes could improve your sleep.
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information
Tuesday 11 September, 12.30pm-3.00pm
Talk and Lunch
A talk from Hilary Touey from Age UK about the services they can offer and a light lunch and drinks.
Sea Cadets HQ, Station Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8AL
Fee: £5.00
Contact: Dawn Ray, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 01767 315079
Tuesday 11 September, 10.30am – 12.30pm
Managing Worries
Is worrying keeping you awake at night? This workshop looks at the common symptoms of worry, and its effect on thoughts, feelings and behaviours. It will cover techniques to postpone your worries by learning to problem solve.
Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Nicola West, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0300 111 1919
Wednesday 5 September
10.00 - 11.00 Workshop; 11.00 – 12.00 Coffee and Tasters
Relaxation for Carers
Our Relaxation Therapist will be explaining some ‘carer friendly’ techniques. Come for a talk, coffee and some ‘taster’ sessions.
Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Nicola West, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0300 111 1919
Understanding Conditions
Carers in Bedfordshire is not responsible for the content delivered by an external provider.
Mental Health Conditions
NHS Recovery College
For a copy of their brochure, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.or ring 01234 316 708
Support4Memory Workshops
Bedford area
Contact Tibbs Dementia Foundation on 07795 177 948
Dementia: Understanding and Managing Challenging Behaviour
This free online course will help you learn more about managing challenging behaviour in people with dementia
FutureLearn
The Many Faces of Dementia
This free online course will help you gain a unique insight into dementia through the stories, symptoms and science behind four less common diagnosis.
FutureLearn
Liver Disease: Looking after your Liver
This free online course will show you how your liver works, ways to look after it and how liver damage is caused, studied and treated around the world.
FutureLearn
Friday 8th June, 10.30 – 12.30
Understanding Voices
Bedford
This workshop is aimed to help people who hear voices, family, friends, in the experience of voice hearing, gain knowledge and understanding about hearing voices. The workshop offers some psychological theory into causes of voice hearing and also explores stigma, management techniques and the overall impact that hearing voices can have on a person’s life and wellbeing.
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information
Wednesday 13th June, 10.00 – 12.00pm
Understanding Autism
Biggleswade
Diagnosis, treatment and helpful intervention options will be explored
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information
18 June
Dementia Care: Staying Connected and Living Well
A free on-line course for carers, to help you stay connected to loved ones, manage stress at home and defuse difficult situations.
FutureLearn
Thursday 21st June, 10.30 – 12.30pm
Understanding Voices
Bedford
This workshop is aimed to help people who hear voices, family, friends, in the experience of voice hearing, gain knowledge and understanding about hearing voices. The workshop offers some psychological theory into causes of voice hearing and also explores stigma, management techniques and the overall impact that hearing voices can have on a person’s life and wellbeing.
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information
Tuesday 10th July, 10.30 – 12.30pm
Understanding Voices
Leighton Buzzard
This workshop is aimed to help people who hear voices, family, friends, in the experience of voice hearing, gain knowledge and understanding about hearing voices. The workshop offers some psychological theory into causes of voice hearing and also explores stigma, management techniques and the overall impact that hearing voices can have on a person’s life and wellbeing.
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information
Tuesday 17th July, 10.30 – 12.30
Understanding Voices
Dunstable
This workshop is aimed to help people who hear voices, family, friends, in the experience of voice hearing, gain knowledge and understanding about hearing voices. The workshop offers some psychological theory into causes of voice hearing and also explores stigma, management techniques and the overall impact that hearing voices can have on a person’s life and wellbeing.
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information
Monday 23rd July, 11.00 – 3.00pm
Understanding Depression
Dunstable
Join us in an informal and relaxing workshop that will provide each participant with insight into the systems of depression and the various cycles involved in the condition/illness
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information
Wednesday 25th July, 1.00 – 3.00pm
Surviving Trauma
Biggleswade
This workshop aims to explore the impact traumatic events on our emotional health and wellbeing. The workshop will focus on coping and survival strategies for managing trauma, as well as discussing reconnection with life after experiencing traumatic events.
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information
Tuesday 7th August, 10.30 – 12.30
Understanding Voices
Ampthill
This workshop is aimed to help people who hear voices, family, friends, in the experience of voice hearing, gain knowledge and understanding about hearing voices. The workshop offers some psychological theory into causes of voice hearing and also explores stigma, management techniques and the overall impact that hearing voices can have on a person’s life and wellbeing.
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information
Friday 24th August, 10.30 – 12.30
Understanding Voices
Bedford
This workshop is aimed to help people who hear voices, family, friends, in the experience of voice hearing, gain knowledge and understanding about hearing voices. The workshop offers some psychological theory into causes of voice hearing and also explores stigma, management techniques and the overall impact that hearing voices can have on a person’s life and wellbeing.
Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information
3 September
Understanding Anxiety, Depression and CBT
With this free online course improve your understanding of depression and anxiety and find out more about an effective and evidence-based treatment: CBT.
FutureLearn
10 September
Caring for People with Psychosis and Schizophrenia
With this free online course explore the key issues related to caring for a relative with psychosis or schizophrenia.
FutureLearn
15 October
Understanding Depression and Low Mood in Young People
With this free online course understand how to recognise depression and low mood in teenagers and learn how to help.
FutureLearn
Wellbeing
1-to-1 Smartphone / Tablet / Laptop training
Did you know that everyday technology can help you as a carer? Using Skype, on-line shopping or booking a GP appointment online. To find out more book a 1-1 IT training session for some advice, tips and instructions on technology.
Mondays, 10.00am – 1.00pm
Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Nicola West, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0300 111 1919
Wednesday, 2 & 4th week, various times
Leighton Buzzard Library
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Anna Kidman, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 07772 231208
The 2nd Tuesday of each month, 10.00am - 2.30pm
Relaxation
Trainer - Victoria Harley
Sea Cadet HQ, Biggleswade
Fee: £15.00 for 30 min or £25.00 for 60 min.
Contact: Dawn Ray, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., 01767 315079
Thursday 19, 26 April, 3, 10, 17, 24 May, 7, 14, 21, 28 June, 5, 12 July, 10.30am-12.30pm
Art Group
Learn new skills and enjoy the company of likeminded, creative people at our Art course. You don’t have to be a skilled artist to enjoy these classes.
Sea Cadets HQ, Biggleswade, SG18 8AL
Fee: £60 per course (12 weeks) or £6.00 per session.
Contact: Dawn Ray, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 01767 315079
Tuesday 5, 12, 19 June, 6pm for coffee, Session from 6.30pm – 7.30pm
Mindfulness and Meditation
Feeling stressed and frazzled? The Mindfulness and Meditation sessions will teach you relaxation skills and encourage you to be mindful.
Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Nicola West, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0300 111 1919
Wednesday 13 June, 10.00am – 12.00pm
5 Ways to Wellbeing
Taking care of your emotional wellbeing is so important to your caring role. This workshop boosts feelings of wellbeing and helps you to cope with life’s challenges.
Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Nicola West, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0300 111 1919
Thursday 21 June, 1.00-2.30pm CANCELLED
Financial Wellbeing
Identifying income related benefits and exploring ways to minimise your outgoings.
St. Nicholas Church Hall, Barton Le Clay
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Dawn Ray, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 01767 315079
21 July
Strategies for Successful Ageing
With this free online course find out how staying happy, healthy, socially-connected and active can help you age successfully.
FutureLearn
Wednesday 15 August, 10.00am - 12.00pm
Beginning to Face Your Fears
ELFT NHS
Understand the process behind the symptoms of panic, and its effect on thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Train yourself how to gradually face your fears through graded exposure.
Scout Hut, Grovebury Road, Leighton Buzzard
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Anna Kidman, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 07772 231208
Wednesday 5 September, 10.00am - 12.00pm
5 Ways to Wellbeing
Taking care of your emotional wellbeing is so important to your caring role. This workshop boosts feelings of wellbeing and helps you to cope with life’s challenges.
Scout Hut, Grovebury Road, Leighton Buzzard
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Anna Kidman, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 07772 231208
Wednesday 5 September 10.00 – 12.00
Relaxation for Carers
Our Relaxation Therapist will be explaining some ‘carer friendly’ techniques in the Relaxation for Carers workshop. Come for a talk, coffee and some ‘taster’ sessions.
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Nicola West, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0300 111 1919
Friday 14 & 21 September, 5,12, 19 October, 2 & 9 November, 10.30 – 12.30
Art for Wellbeing
Learn new skills and enjoy the company of likeminded, creative people at our Art for Wellbeing course. You don’t have to be a skilled artist to enjoy these classes.
Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford
Fee: £35 per course; £6.00 per session
Contact: Nicola West, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0300 111 1919
Art for Wellbeing
Thursday 20, 27, September, 4, 11, 18 October, 1,8, 15, 22, 29 November, 6, 13 December
Learn new skills and enjoy the company of likeminded, creative people at our Art for Wellbeing course. You don’t have to be a skilled artist to enjoy these classes
Sea Cadets HQ, Station Road, Biggleswade
Fee: £60 per course: £6.00 per session. Contact: Dawn Ray, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 01767 315079
Thursday 27 September, 10.30am – 12.30pm
5 Ways to Wellbeing
Taking care of your emotional wellbeing is so important to your caring role. This workshop boosts feelings of wellbeing and helps you to cope with life’s challenges.
Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford
Fee: Free (Donations welcome)
Contact: Nicola West, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0300 111 1919