A PROJECT aimed at getting unpaid carers aged over 55 online has gained additional funding to continue into 2021.

The digital inclusion programme, called Worth Connecting, is run by Shipley-based charity Carers Resource, which supports 16,000 unpaid carers in the district, as well as Craven and Harrogate.

The scheme, which will run until February 2021, offers assistance with accessing the internet, using social media and learning basic keyboard skills over a number of weeks. The idea is to help carers over 55 gather information, connect with friends and family and access services from home.

Support workers will offer assistance remotely and, once it is safe to do so, will also offer small groups sessions.

Programme Manager Josephine Loughran said: “If you, or someone you know, wants to use a digital device we can help, so please do get in touch. We can currently offer individual telephone support and hope to be able to set up small, safe groups in a number of locations as soon as we’re able. We can lend tablets and the means to access the internet as necessary.

“We have extensive teaching materials to help people understand popular digital activities both within a teaching session and when practising on their own. We’d like to help as many people as possible to get online.”

One carer, from Shipley, said: ‘‘I’d never used a computer or tablet before as my partner used to do all of that, but I’ve found a new lease of life during the pandemic through being able to write emails, watch videos and catch up with the news. I thought it might be difficult to learn over the phone, but we worked at a pace that suited me.”

Carers' Resource is also running a series of wellbeing sessions for unpaid carers. The online sessions cover self-care, confidence building, tackling stress and anxiety, peer support and reducing isolation.

Future sessions will focus on other topics empowering carers and connecting them with others in similar situations. Attendees receive a goody bag; items so far have included a neck pillow for relaxation.

Chief executive of the charity, Chris Whiley, said: “When you’re a carer it is easy to lose sight of your own health and wellbeing. These sessions offer help and support.”

November’s session looks at making connections online and December’s is self care, problem solving and dealing with different emotions. * Call (01274) 449660 or email info@worthconnecting.org or visit carersresource.org