January 2026
Welcome 2026!
Welcome to the January Edition of the Portsmouth Carers Service Newsletter
Happy New Year from all of us at Portsmouth Carers Service! As we step into 2026, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for the incredible support and dedication you’ve shown throughout the past year. Your resilience and commitment to caring make a real difference in our community, and we’re proud to walk alongside you on this journey.
This month’s newsletter is packed with updates, resources, and opportunities designed to help you feel supported and connected. From upcoming carers breaks to new initiatives, aimed at improving access to services, we’re excited to share what’s ahead.
As always, we welcome your feedback and ideas because your voice helps shape the future of our service. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s anything we can do to support you better.
Kind regards,
Ben – Team Manager
Discover, Connect, Recharge!
New Year, New You – Discover Something New in 2026!
As the New Year unfolds, why not gift yourself a fresh experience? Caring for someone is both rewarding and demanding – and dedicating time to your own wellbeing is essential.
Join Our Carers’ Break Sessions
Enjoy a relaxing social time while preparing healthy meals in our cookery sessions, create something beautiful in our craft sessions, or find your ‘zen’ in our wellbeing sessions. You can find the latest schedule on our website: Carers Break Sessions – Schedule
Explore Wonderful Online Resources
Can’t get out? These free and low-cost online platforms let you learn, relax, or connect – all from home:
- The WEA – Wellbeing sessions and cultural experiences.
- Carers UK Share and Learn – Weekly live sessions including yoga and stress relief.
- Carers First – Monthly Zoom sessions with breathwork and stress tools.
- Virtual Village Hall – Free live and on-demand classes: gentle exercise, crafts, cooking, music, mindfulness, creative writing and more.
Join Portsmouth Activities
Looking for local inspiration? Try these free or low-cost options in Portsmouth:
- Family Saturdays at Aspex Gallery
- Community Gardening Clubs
- Wellbeing walks round Portsmouth
- Nature Watch in Victoria Park
Why Try Something New?
- Boosts wellbeing and mood
- Offers a sense of achievement
- Helps you feel less isolated
- Provides peaceful moments just for you
Even small choices – like an online craft session or a stroll in the park – can have a big impact.
COPC Short Creative Courses
Exciting News for 2026!
Our partnership with the City of Portsmouth College is growing, and we’re thrilled to bring you three inspiring short courses as part of our Carers Breaks programme.
There are still spaces available don’t miss your chance!
Upcoming Courses
- Creative Writing Unleash your imagination and tell your story.
- Art for Wellbeing Relax, create, and boost your mood.
- Mindful Photography Find calm through the lens.
Why Join?
- Interactive, welcoming sessions
- Perfect for all skill levels
- Learn something new and rewarding
- Connect with like-minded people
- Take time out for YOU, have fun and recharge!
This is your opportunity to explore your creativity, meet new people, and have a break.
Book your place today! Call 023 9285 1864 spaces are limited, so act fast!
Being Prepared Can Save Lives
How to Help in an Emergency
We were delighted to welcome so many carers to the recent British Red Cross Emergency First Aid workshop at the Carers Centre. It was a fantastic session, and we hope to offer more opportunities like this in the future.
Did you know that British Red Cross research shows only 41% of people in the UK feel confident to help if someone is unresponsive and not breathing? In situations like these, every second counts – and even the most basic first aid skills can save a life.
If you’d like to learn more about how to respond in an emergency, here are some useful resources:
- British Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org.uk/first-aid
- St John Ambulance: https://www.sja.org.uk/get-advice/translated-first-aid-resources/
- Resuscitation Council UK: https://www.resus.org.uk/public-resource/cpr-language-resources
- DefibFinder: https://www.defibfinder.uk/
One visitor recently asked about the nearest defibrillator – a great reminder of how important this information can be. The DefibFinder website and app allow you to search for the closest defibrillator by postcode. For example, you can easily check the locations near the Carers Centre.
Hopefully, you’ll never face an emergency, but if you do, having the right knowledge and resources can make all the difference.
New CAB/MacMillan Drop-in
Citizens Advice Macmillan Advisors at the Carers Centre
We’re delighted to announce a new Advice Drop-In for anyone affected by cancer. The Citizens Advice Macmillan Advisors will be at the Carers Centre to offer impartial and confidential information and advice on a wide range of issues, including:
- Welfare benefit applications and appeals
- Money matters: debts, pensions, insurance, and fuel schemes
- Accessing charitable grants and one-off payments
- Housing issues
- Employment advice
- Travel support for appointments
When and Where?
- Every 1st Thursday of the month
- Time: 10am – 12pm
- Location: Carers Centre, 117 Orchard Road, Southsea, PO4 0AD
- No need to book – just drop in!
Need more information? Call 0344 847 7727 or email macmillan.cahampshire@cabnet.org.uk
Come and See Jo at Landport!
Join Us at the Portsmouth Community Health Fair!
Date: Monday 19 January 2026
Location: Landport Community Centre
Time: 1 PM – 5 PM
- Free Blood Pressure Checks
- Learn Basic Life Support
- Discover Local Support Networks
Come along to explore hospital services, meet local organisations, and connect with charities that make a difference in our community.
For more info, contact Tamzin at pho-tr.patientexperienceteam@nhs.net
Don’t miss this chance to boost your health and wellbeing!