Our Work With Carers
The University’s Widening Access staff work closely with the organisations supporting Carers of all ages. Our definition of a Carer is:
Someone who looks after a member of the family, partner or friend with a physical or sensory disability, learning disability, medical condition, mental health issues or someone addicted to drugs, alcohol or gambling.
Work in the community
In partnership with the following, we endeavour to tackle the barriers individuals face, in light of their caring responsibilities, barriers which impede them from fulfilling their potential:
| Action for Children |  |
| Carers Outreach |  |
| Carers Trust Wales |  |
| NEWCIS Supporting Carers in the Community |
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| WCD Young Carers |  |
| Connecting Carers in Powys |  |
Awareness-raising Film
A few years ago, Bangor University supported the production of a short film raising awareness of carer responsibilities. Watch the video.
Young Carers' Residential Weekend
Each year, Bangor University welcomes young carers to a Residential Event, which gives 16-25 year olds a taste of University life and the support offered to them here at Bangor. During the event, many academic schools deliver subject taster sessions. There is an opportunity to see round the University, Pontio, the Students’ Union and take advantage of the leisure facilities at Canolfan Brailsford before spending a night in University accommodation.
Widening Access Scholarship
Annually, in addition to the £1000 Carer Bursary offered by the University centrally, an additional scholarship of £1,500 is offered to a Carer coming to study at Bangor University. This scholarship is awarded following an application process.
Work within the University
Bursaries for Student Carers: in line with the University’s policy of supporting young people leaving care, Bangor University also offers a bursary for students with caring responsibilities in their homes.
Download the Carers Trust University Starter pack information.
Contacts
Wendy Williams: wendy.williams@bangor.ac.uk
Gwenda Blackmore: g.a.blackmore@bangor.ac.uk
Establishing a Peer Group
In collaboration with the Students Union, the Widening Access Centre is working with current students who are also Carers in establishing a group for mutual support. It is hoped that our current students will be willing to work with the Widening Access Centre in its work through sharing experiences with prospective student carers.
Resources
Carers Handbook
Bangor University produces a handbook for our current and prospective students detailing the support available as well as telephone numbers and contact details that may be of help in any emergency.
Which? Elderly Care
Which? Elderly Care is a source of free and independent information and advice on care choices for older people across the UK. It's a not-for-profit branch of Which? and will always be completely free to use.