Supporting Activities

Time for you

Those people who support someone living with a complex mental issue, face daily challenges that are outside the coping skills of most people - often dealing with complex crisis led behaviour.

If that is you, we know you are the main link between professionals and your loved ones, taking daily responsibility for ensuring that they stay well and remain engaged with social and health care services.

The aim of CAUSE Carers Supporting Activities is simple - it is to give you a break from caring and enable you to do something for yourself.

'This has been so relaxing. I feel very understood by others in the same situation as me. I feel supported and energised. Cannot thank you enough!' PS Newry

This is important, not only to ensure that you are able to continue to support the person you care for, but that you feel valued for the work you do.

We organise a range of short breaks, day outings, evening events, lunches, walks etc. and we try to ensure that there is something available for everyone.

'I found this respite break invaluable from a stressful home situation. As a carer to come away to a beautiful location was peaceful and beautiful. Thank you a most refreshing and beneficial stay.' - DK Bangor

We know from experience that our carers find these opportunities invaluable, not least on the time spent with others in similar situations - this can help to decrease the feelings of isolation that go hand in hand with caring for a loved one.

'This break has been amazing for me- I feel that I have gained friends in similar situations to myself and I am more ready to face the daily routine at home. Thank you!' RT Lisburn

CAUSE Family Connections Training and Workshops

CAUSE has developed a range of unique practical and psycho-educational skills based programmes for those who support someone living with severe mental illness and/or Personality Disorder.

Our trainers and 'experts by experience’ work together to develop and deliver our highly regarded workshops.

This approach brings together both theoretical and real life experiences to produce a comprehensive range of useful information for carers and family members. Our participants have said that this style of training gives a unique perspective into understanding mental health and living with mental health problems.

'I was blown away by all the information provided on my residential course and overwhelmed to realise that I am not on my own. This is an amazing charity helping us care for our loved ones who are ill.' AJ Newcastle

Our programmes give our carers the opportunity to meet and share experiences with other carers in a safe and supported environment.

We aim to help tackle many of the issues facing carers and explore what you can do differently, build on existing skills and develop ways to cope with the emotional impact of supporting your loved one.

'Thank you for an excellent and valuable workshop. So many helpful tips to deal with my situation, I’m so glad I went. Now I need to put it all into practice!' ML Newtownards

For more information on courses / events / workshops run by CAUSE please call us on 028 90 650 650 or email: [email protected]

Latest

Spring Social Prescribing

Spring Social Prescribing helps people aged 18+ to address social isolation and emotional or practical needs by connecting them to sources of comfort within their community to improve their health and wellbeing.
A reminder to look after yourself

Following the news of the two week circuit breaker last week and as we enter a new week this is just a gentle reminder to take some time out to practice self-care. This booklet is full of ideas on how to do just that!
'Phone First' service being trialled

A new ‘Phone First’ service for Northern Ireland is being trialled across a number of Emergency Departments. The service will ensure patients can get direct access to the right care, avoid busy Emergency Departments and stay safe.
Little Book of Positivity

Support groups

A safe and confidential space to talk, to learn about mental illness and services but also to connect with others who are dealing with similar issues and problems.
Our vision

Partners in care - Supporters in recovery - Advocates for Change
Support our carers

Giving regularly helps us to continue our support to many families, friends and partners caring for a loved one with a serious mental illness as it allows us to plan for our future projects and services. You can make a one off donation too or give regularly now or you can also send your donation simply. If you require any further information about making a donation to CAUSE, please call us on 028 9065 0650 or email: [email protected]
Supporting Activities

We arrange supporting activities and short breaks to ensure carers can prioritise their own health and well-being.
Our services

Established in 1995, CAUSE is peer-led which means it is run by carers for carers. We know from direct personal experience the issues carers can face. Whether you just need someone to talk to, guidance on finding your way around or accessing services, how to work with professionals, learning more about mental illness, support available for carers or dealing with other problems, we are here for you.
The impact of COVID-19 on carers in Northern Ireland

A statement by the Coalition of Carers Organisations NI
Lobbying policy

Replace this with your content
For Carers

CAUSE is peer-led which means it is run by mental health carers for mental health carers. We know from direct personal experience the issues that you as a mental health carer can face. Carer Advocates are here to provide you with help - tailored to what you need to cope in your care-giving role.
Training

Our courses for carers and professionals, are designed to provide specific training - based on lived experience - to all those affected by a loved one's serious mental illness.
Meet some of our board

CAUSE strives to maintain a peer-led focus at both an operational and strategic level.