Caring for a loved one can be deeply rewarding, but it can also be very demanding. Many unpaid carers in Islington dedicate countless hours to supporting a friend, partner, or relative, often putting their own interests and ambitions on hold. But looking after yourself is just as important. Finding time to recharge, connect with others and explore your own goals can make a real difference to your wellbeing.
Flexible, supportive local and online courses
Islington Adult Community Learning (ACL) offers a range of local and online courses designed to be flexible and supportive, ideal for carers who want to take time for themselves, develop their skills and confidence, or potentially help on the path of returning to future employment.
Creative Courses for Relaxation and Connection
For those seeking a creative outlet or a moment of calm, ACL offers courses in sewing and embroidery where you can meet others, share experiences, and build confidence. Even a short class of a few hours can come as a welcome regular break and a chance to rediscover interests put aside while caring.
Building Practical Skills for Everyday Life and Work
Carers thinking about building day to day skills, or preparing for volunteering or future work, can benefit from courses in Essential Digital Skills, Word and Excel, and English and Maths.
These practical classes help with tasks like managing emails or appointments and can also open doors to employment opportunities. Short courses as ‘Stand Out CV Secrets’ and ‘Interview Skills’ give practical guidance for returning to work at your own pace.
Vocational Courses to Formalise Your Skills
Many carers don’t realise how many transferable skills they already have. Empathy, organisation, problem-solving and resilience are highly valued in roles like Health and Social Care, Childcare, or Customer Service. ACL vocational courses help formalise these skills, offering recognised qualifications and clear pathways to employment.
Courses are offered across community venues, with some courses available online. Classes are designed to fit round caring responsibilities with some classes available on a flexible ‘drop-in’ basis. Tutors understand the challenges carers face and provide a supportive environment to learn at your own pace.
Find out more
If you’re an unpaid carer in Islington, you can explore what’s available at adultlearning.islington.gov.uk. You can also contact us at acl@islington.gov.uk or call or WhastApp 07746 777 466 for more information
“At Adult Community Learning Islington, we offer a wide range of courses each year to help local residents build confidence, develop interests and learn new skills. Our dedicated team of 45 experienced staff are here to support carers – to find the right course to fit your interests and during their learning.
We understand that caring responsibilities can make it difficult to commit to regular sessions, so we offer a variety of flexible options including one-off courses and drop-in opportunities where you can join when you’re able to.
Whether you’d like to do something just for fun, build your skills, or return to learning after a break, our team is here to help you get started. We’d be delighted to help you find the right opportunity – drop into one of our Enrolment sessions at Islington Central Library on Mondays at 1pm or call or message us on 07734 777 466 to discuss what you’d like to do.”
