Reflecting on Carers Rights Week: Supporting those who care for others at the end of life
This Carers Rights Day, we’re reflecting on a workshop held during Carers Rights Week, when Rowcroft Hospice’s Education Team were delighted to be invited by Stephanie Malyon, Rohan Davidson, and the team at Torbay Carers to host a workshop focused on supporting carers of people approaching the end of life.
The session aimed to inform and empower carers to explore the choices, wishes, and decisions that matter most to them and those they care for. It also provided an opportunity to discuss some of the rights and responsibilities that carers need to consider when planning ahead.
A small group of six carers, along with one cared-for individual, gathered over coffee and biscuits at Paignton Library—for some, it was their very first carers’ meeting. The conversation was gently guided by Rowcroft’s Education Team, Kerry Macnish and Catherine Hughes – both experienced palliative care nurses and educators, who encouraged open discussion and questions from everyone in the room.
Creating a supportive space for carers
“It was so wonderful to see the discussion flowing so freely, with carers sharing personal experiences, offering advice, and supporting each other,” said Kerry. “Topics ranged from legal and practical matters – such as Power of Attorney, wills, and family dynamics – to the importance of understanding bank and digital accounts or even making plans for a beloved cats future care.
“Another key theme was how to start (and revisit) difficult but essential conversations with loved ones about end-of-life wishes. While many expressed initial apprehensions about these talks, they also spoke of the relief and reassurance that came from having them – knowing that plans for funerals or medical decisions, such as resuscitation preferences, were already discussed with professionals.”
Despite the seriousness of the topics, there was plenty of laughter and camaraderie throughout the session. As carers, participants reflected with humour and honesty on the creative ways they find to “make things work,” even in challenging circumstances.
Looking ahead with confidence
Kerry and Catherine also introduced the group to Planning for the Future Hub | Rowcroft Hospice—a helpful online resource featuring 12 key themes to support people in planning ahead. Participants were encouraged to explore materials such as the short film No Barriers Here, co-developed with people with learning disabilities, and the Care and Comfort Guide for Pets, offering peace of mind for animal lovers.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the session as both informative and reassuring. One participant said, “It was so good to hear others’ situations and their ideas. I shall certainly attend more courses, as it was so very helpful and a good source of help to me. I would recommend this course.” Another added, “It was a good session of sharing experiences by everyone in the group. I couldn’t fault the presentation – it offered a good blend of fact and sensitivity.”
We’re delighted to share that, due to this success, another workshop is already planned for April 2026.