In recognition of the support received from Crossroads Care Hertfordshire North helping to look after her husband John, Sylvia Richardson hosted a fund raising coffee morning for the Charity recently.

Sylvia who lives in Walkern sadly lost her husband last year having cared for him at home. A support worker from Crossroads Care gave Sylvia a regular respite break by taking care of her husband so that she had some important ‘me time’ once a week to relieve the stress of being a full time carer

Sylvia has been a regular member of the Stevenage Carers’ Café Group and has formed many friendships with other carers as a result. The group meet every Monday morning from 10 am until 12 noon at the Crossroads Care Hertfordshire North Day Centre in Stevenage. They meet for coffee and chat but also have a programme of activities.

Sylvia kindly offered to open her beautiful gardens that back onto the River Beane for Coffee and Cakes. She rallied friends and neighbours to help out with baking cakes and serving on the morning. A wonderful spread was enjoyed by the group of nearly 30 who were able to admire the beautiful gardens and enjoy the warm sunshine.

Raffle prizes were donated and sales from tickets and donations raised over £150 for the Charity.

Sylvia said “I decided to hold the coffee morning to pay back Crossroads Care for helping me during such a difficult time when I was looking after John”

Local carer Diana cares for her son who is autistic and non-verbal, and has been supported through this scheme. She said “I received such kind and prompt service from both these charities. I have been given advice on helping my son sleep through the night and was referred to Children, Schools and Families for extra support. I am also discussing having a break for myself and funding to help me further my education. Although I still have things to sort out, the support I have had has been so helpful and I feel so much more confident than I did before.”