What is CCS and Somerset Carers Service?
COMMUNITY COUNCIL FOR SOMERSET (CCS) is a Charity that was formed in 1926 as part of the Rural Communities Network whose role was to help communities get back on their feet following the First World War.
The Community Council for Somerset is NOT part of Somerset Council (SC) although Somerset Council, along with the Integrated Health Board (ICB), contracts CCS for some of its work.
CCS’ focus is on building resilience, ensuring everyone has access to essential resources like food, fuel, transport, and health support. Their aim is to strengthen connections between community organisations and public services, while amplifying local voices to inform policy.
For more information, please visit their websites:
https://ccslovesomerset.org/
https://somersetcarers.org/
The Community Council for Somerset is contracted by Somerset Council to run and develop the carers’ service across the whole of Somerset. This part of CCS is called the Somerset Carers Service. Across Somerset, CCS employs Village Agents, whose role is to advocate for people and their communities. They provide confidential, practical solutions for you wherever you are in Somerset. There are over 60 Village Agents across the county, with some specifically assigned to support unpaid carers; they are known as ‘Carers Agents’.
All support given by CCS and the Somerset Carers Service is free. A ‘Carer’ can be any age, but the CCS’ remit is for those over 18. A carer looks after someone in an ‘unpaid’ caring capacity (not employed or self employed). This could be a family member, friend or neighbour. Not everyone realises that they are a carer.
The Village Agent
Fiona Clements is The Village Agent (Carers Service) for Wincanton and surrounding areas in East Somerset. She can (and does!) assist any of us who need help.
Fiona runs a drop-in ‘Talking Café’ in Wincanton Library (01963 32173) every other week on Wednesdays from 10.00 – 12.00 pm. Carers can meet her there – without needing to book – and discuss any problems to do with caring or anything that they find worrying. If Fiona is not available in the Library she can be contacted through the Somerset Carer’s advice line – 0800 31 68 600 or 01823 331 222 – or by emailing the office at: carers@somersetrcc.org.uk. There is also a contact form on the Somerset Carers website which can be used to send a message.
Another String to our Bow
A Carer’s Champion is a designated staff member in a GP Practice who acts as a key point of contact for Carers. Every GP Practice should have a Carer’s Champion. The Carer’s Champion helps identify carers and can provide information about support services as well as advocating for the needs of carers within the practice. Essentially they act as a voice for carers within the healthcare setting.
Clare Pitts is the brand new Carer’s Champion in Wincanton Health Centre. Whilst she is settling in, the Health Coaches – Sarah Wiscombe and Megan Perrin – will be happy to help you. You can speak to them by phoning the Health Centre on 01963 435700 and selecting option four.
Last (but not at all least) don’t forget that Wincanton Cares has meetings in various places in Wincanton where you can find more expert advice, discuss the joys and problems of caring with other carers and have a free hot drink and a cake!
- Wincanton Cares Unpaid Carers’ Group at the River Cale Café at 2-3.30 2nd Tuesday of each month
- Wincanton Cares Talking Table in Morrisons Café at 10.00-12.00 last Tuesday of each month
- Wincanton Cares Talking Table in No. 16 Café at 2.30 – 3.30 1st Wednesday of each month
- Wincanton Cares Paid Carers’ Group at the River Cale Café at 2.00 – 3.30 3rd Wednesday of each month
Stay Safe
Not all, but some ‘cold callers’ could be trying to take advantage of those of us who are more vulnerable, less aware, kind hearted or gullible. According to the police there have been reports of ‘Nottingham Knockers’ in the Shepton Mallet (not Wincanton so far!) area. They knock on doors and usually tell residents that they are ex-offenders trying to go straight, then try to sell poor quality and over-priced cleaning products. They may also offer services such as roof or driveway repairs and cleaning.
The police want to remind residents they are under no obligation to answer the door to anyone they don’t know or aren’t expecting.
If you do talk to a ‘cold caller’, they are supposed to provide a valid Pedlar’s Certificate and should leave your property when asked. Police always recommend using a door chain and asking to see the identification of unexpected callers. If you are suspicious of a caller ring 101 straight away or 999 in an emergency.
If you’re not in the room keep windows and doors locked. Remember that genuine callers expect you to check their identity before opening the door. They would never try to rush you by claiming that there is an emergency. If at all possible: KEEP YOUR CASH IN THE BANK, NOT AT HOME!
Regular Monthly Meetings and Events
And finally. If you need help right now:
Or contact us on 07834 597893
