Christmas can be a fun time, however it can also be challenging for many people, with extra commitments, expense and social gatherings. Having caring responsibilities can also make a difference to how we experience the festive season.

That’s why VOCAL have put together a programme of support and time away from caring for unpaid carers in Edinburgh and Midlothian this festive season including:

• Surviving christmas as a carer – join a small group at one of four sessions to explore how Christmas may have changed for you since you became a carer and look at tools to deal with the physical and emotional demands of the festive season. Find out more here.
• Time away from caring – group activites for carers to take some time for themselves and to meet with others for support including a guided meditation, trip to see the Giant Lanterns of China at Edinburgh Zoo, visit to Our Dynamic Earth and a ride on the Big Wheel on Princes Street. Click here for more details and how to book.

Festive support for carers leaflets

VOCAL Edinburgh & Midlothian carer centre opening times

Fri 22 Dec	Edinburgh & Midlothian carer centres close (4pm)
Mon 25 & Tues 26 Dec	Edinburgh & Midlothian carer centres CLOSED
Wed 27 Dec	Midlothian carer centre open 10am-4pm for telephone support only – call 0131 663 6869
	Edinburgh carer centre open 10am-4pm: 10am – 4pm Carer support – call 0131 622 6666 11am – 2pm Carer Cafe (drop-in) 4pm – 6pm Giant Lanterns at Edinburgh Zoo (free but ticketed – FULLY BOOKED)
Thur 28 Dec	Midlothian carer centre CLOSED
	Edinburgh carer centre open 10am-4pm: 10am – 4pm Carer support – call 0131 622 6666 10.30aam – 1pm Visit to Dynamic Earth (free but ticketed – FULLY BOOKED) 11am – 2pm Carer Cafe (drop-in) 2pm-4pm SMART Recovery Family & Friends meeting 5.30pm – 7pm Ride on Princes St Big Wheel (free but ticketed – FULLY BOOKED)
Fri 29 Dec, Mon 1 & Tue 2 Jan 2018	Edinburgh & Midlothian carer centres CLOSED
Wed 3 Jan 2018	Wed 3 Jan Edinburgh & Midlothian carer centres re-open (9am – 5pm)