Making a difference - Caroline's story
Caroline Blackwell graduated on 9th June 2006 at Bridgewater Hall, Manchester with a BSc Honours Degree in Air and Environmental Sciences.
Caroline, 41, has cared for her father since 1998, when her mother died suddenly. Although she has two sisters, one brother and eight nieces and nephews, she was the only one without a husband or children. They live nearby, except her youngest sister who lives in Shropshire.
Caroline is responsible for her father, who needs 24/7 care; he has mental health problems similar to Alzheimer’s as well as physical issues including arthritis and has had accidents resulting in injuries such as broken ribs.
Caroline tries to go on one holiday a year, but she generally cannot get out much and says she does most of the things people do when they retire – walk the dog, she also has pigs and tends to her beehive. Her caring role means that she does not get the opportunity to meet many people and is unlikely to get married or to have children herself.
So Caroline decided to go on an Open University course to gain a qualification for the future when she is no longer a carer and needs to work. It was also a way to prove to herself that she is valued and boost her self-esteem.
The degree was part-funded by the Open University and The Princess Royal Trust for Carers who funded the field study trip. Carers Link - Hyndburn & Ribble Valley Carers Centre provided moral support throughout and she cannot speak highly enough of them. They were always supportive and helped build her confidence. She benefited from one of their therapy days just before her final exam.
Caroline gained her Batchelor of Science Honours Degree in Air and Environmental Sciences in October 2005 after six years of study and the Graduation Ceremony took place in June 2006 at Bridgewater Hall, Manchester.
She is very proud and says the achievement was so rewarding because it was something she had accomplished herself. One day she would like a job in conservation, possibly working for an organisation such as English Heritage.
Caroline is keen to make people aware of what carers do and contribute – some people think she just sits at home and reads the paper! They do not realise the mental anguish and the responsibility that is involved.
In the past she has suffered from depression although she feels she is one of the lucky ones with support from her local GP, nurses and Carers Link.
Carers need to understand that it is important that they take time for themselves and look after their own health. The Trust, via their UK-wide network of Carers' Centres helps make that possible.