Margaret’s story: a spoonful of support

Margaret’s story: a spoonful of support

Margaret cares for her husband, who lives with lymphoedema, blood pressure issues and severe depression. As his caring needs increased, Margaret found herself taking on more responsibilities, while support from local services had been reduced. This left her feeling under pressure and with very little time to focus on herself.

During a conversation with her local carers' centre, Margaret discussed the challenges she was facing and the support that was available. Staff introduced her to the Time to Live microgrant programme and encouraged her to consider applying. At first, Margaret was reluctant. Recent experiences had left her feeling discouraged about accessing support and she doubted that she would be successful. However, with some gentle encouragement from her Carer Support Worker, Margaret began to talk about something she had always enjoyed but had not made time for in many years: baking!

She spoke fondly about looking through recipe books, planning treats for her family, and the enjoyment she used to get from spending time in the kitchen. Together, they identified baking as an activity that could provide Margaret with meaningful time away from her caring role while also benefiting her wellbeing.

Margaret successfully applied for a Time to Live microgrant and used the funding to purchase baking books and essential equipment, including new bun tins, cookie sheets, mixing bowls, utensils, cookie cutters and a starter pack of baking ingredients.

The grant gave Margaret everything she needed to rediscover a hobby she thought she had left behind.

"Thank you. I am so grateful that I was helped to apply for these items. They were exactly what I needed to get started. Since the children grew up, I never really thought about baking anymore, but I had forgotten just how relaxing it is. Immersing myself in baking has been really therapeutic for me."

Baking has now become an important way for Margaret to take time for herself and unwind from the pressures of caring. Planning recipes, measuring ingredients and creating homemade treats helps her to switch off and focus on something positive.

The microgrant has helped Margaret reconnect with a much-loved pastime and create valuable moments of relaxation and enjoyment. What started as a small grant has had a lasting impact, giving Margaret the opportunity to prioritise her own wellbeing while continuing in her caring role.

Find out more about Time to Live here.