AN EAST Lothian charity is running a series of free online events for unpaid carers in the county to mark Carers Week.

Carers of East Lothian, based at East Lothian Community Hospital, Haddington, has organised the virtual events for Carers Week, a national campaign aiming to raise awareness of unpaid carers, the challenges they face and the contribution they make to communities.

They all mark this year’s theme 'making caring visible'.

This year’s Carers Week starts on Monday and runs until next Sunday.

The upcoming events featured below all require internet access and most require advanced booking. Those who wish to be involved but do not have internet access can call 0131 665 0135.

On Monday a mindfulness session takes places 2pm-3pm. The session consists of brief introduction to mindfulness followed by guided meditation.

Tuesday at 2pm there will be a sing-a-long session with Just Sing!. No previous singing experience is required.

Later on at 6pm a fun quirky quiz takes place on WhatsApp with the parent carer support group. Those who wish to take part are asked to email susanq@coel.org.uk or call 07483 438210.

A gentle movement exercise session takes place on Wednesday morning at 10.30am and is suitable for all ages and abilities.

At the same time a virtual bingo session takes place with Dunbar Carers’ Group.

At 2pm on Wednesday a live concert takes place on Facebook. People can watch the concert at www.facebook.com/sarahlaingsings, no booking is required. Those who wish to request a song in advance of the concert are asked to email Linda@coel.org.uk, using the subject line ‘Carers Concert’.

People can make their own natural self care products at 4pm using items in their kitchen cupboards. Those who wish to take part are asked to register as soon as possible as an information sheet will be emailed out with a list of the ingredients that will be used, and so people have enough time to pick up the items they do not have.

On Thursday at 2pm people can join in on a chat with other carers about their favourite book from any genre, such as one that has inspired you or been a source of comfort.

On Friday at 3pm there will be a connecting carers online radio show dedicated to unpaid carers. People are asked to send their song requests and shout outs to susanq@coel.org.uk using the subject line ‘Connecting Carers Radio’.

To listen to the radio show and take part in the live chat people are asked to download the free Mixlr app, open the app and select the listen option, type ‘connecting carers’ into the search box and then sit back, listen, enjoy and take part.

Throughout the week a ‘thought for the day’, recording of a poem and links to other resources will be posted on the Carers of East Lothian Facebook page and website, with something new posted every day.

There will also be a ‘making caring visible’ photo competition, details will also be posted on Facebook and the Carers of East Lothian website.

An attempt will be made to include everyone with the resources available to the charity during lockdown.

A spokesperson for Carers of East Lothian said: “This is our small way of saying a big thank you to unpaid carers in our community.”

To book a place email kirsteen@coel.org.uk. The individual will then receive an email confirmation in advance of the event with details on how to join a Zoom meeting. Those who need help signing up for an online event can call 0131 665 0135.