Carers Celebration is a monumental success!
Over 400 Carers and their families flocked to Derbyshire Carers Association’s Annual Carers Celebration and AGM held on 9th December at the world-famous and iconic ‘Crooked Spire’ of Chesterfield.
April Parker, soloist singer from Chesterfield College, opened the event and set the tone of the celebrations with a stunning rendition of Leonard Cohen’s beautiful song – ‘Hallelujah’. April has an amazing voice and in such a wonderful setting, conveyed the true emotion of the song.
Carers took the opportunity to relax and enjoy the beautiful environment of the Church of Saint Mary and All Saints, whilst being further entertained by Codnor School Choir, Chesterfield College Foundation Students and to join in the singing of seasonal carols. The College students even taught the congregation to sing ‘Silent Night’ in Makaton sign language!
There was an inspiring address by Father Patrick Colman, Carers poetry readings and, after the event, the chance to share coffee and mince pies with fellow Carers. The celebration gave Carers a thoroughly well-deserved break allowing them some precious ‘Me Time’.
This festive event, held as part of DCA’s programme of high profile activities scheduled for 2014/15, offered Carers throughout Derbyshire a chance to celebrate, chat with others in similar situations and the opportunity to meet DCA staff, trustees and local dignitaries including the Mayor and Mayoress of Chesterfield and The High Sheriff of Derbyshire.
Everyone attending was encouraged and enthused by the day; Carer Pat said: ‘Thank you so much to all involved in organising and running the event today. I can honestly say I have never been to anything like it. Well done everybody it was lovely.’
Other Carers commented: ‘We really loved it here today and have made new friends’ and that it was _‘a wonderful, special occasion, just what was needed’.
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Derbyshire Carers Association (DCA) would like to thank all the Dignitaries, Codnor School, Chesterfield College Foundation Students, Father Patrick, Musical Director Ian Brackenbury and biggest thank-you of all – to the hundreds of Carers that attended.
Following the success of this event, Narinder Sharma, CEO of the Carers Association said: ‘This has been a wonderful opportunity for Carers to relax a little and enjoy themselves. It’s not very often that the High Sheriff, three Borough Mayors, the Mayor and Mayoress of Chesterfield, Health professionals, supporting organisations and over 400 Carers join together to celebrate the selfless work undertaken by Carers. I am very happy to confirm next year’s Carers Celebration has already been booked!’