Are You a Carer?
Do you look after someone who is ill, frail, disabled or mentally ill?
We are interested in identifying carers, especially those people who may be caring without help or support. We know that carers are often “hidden” looking after a family member or helping a friend or neighbour with day to day tasks and may not see themselves as a carer.
Caring for someone is an important and valuable role in the community, which is often a 24-hour job that can be very demanding and isolating for the carer. Carers should receive appropriate support by way of access to accurate information on a range of topics such as entitlement to benefits and respite care and not least, a listening ear when things get too much.
If you are please let us know - we may be able to help you.
If you wish to discuss your situation as a Carer, please make an appointment with one of the healthcare team at Whitley House Surgery.
Action for Family Carers
This is a local charity which supports carers. The charity provides services to support both adult and young carers; this includes provision of respite Day Care. Please call them on 0300 7708090 or visit their website www.affc.org.uk for more information. Please click here to view information about this charity and others which support carers.
Carers First
Supporting carers in Essex, Carers First is the commissioned service providing advice and support to adults in Essex who look after a relative or friend. To find out more telephone 0300 303 1555 or email referral@carersfirst.org.uk . www.carersfirst.org.uk/Essex
Young Carers
A young carer is someone under 18 who helps look after someone in their family or a friend who is ill, disabled or misuses drugs or alcohol. The Young Carers Service in Essex offers free personalised support to young carers and their families that will be developed with them around their need for help and the caring they do. Families or young carers themselves can self-refer by emailing young.carers@essex.gov.uk
NHS Choices Website
There is a wealth of information on NHS Choices about carers and caring. Below are some links into the site that we hope you will find useful.
- Caring for a parent
Watch this video on: caring for a parent at home
- Telling people
Caring responsibilities can make it difficult to maintain friendships or develop new ones. Telling your friends you're a carer is important so they understand and can support you.
- Taking a break
Caring for someone can be a full-time job, but it's essential that you take time out for yourself too. Read our guide to accessing breaks and respite.
- Housing and carers
Do you know your tenancy rights as a carer? Are you aware of all your care at home options? Do you need tips on moving someone around the home?
Finance and Law
Help claiming benefits, looking after your bank balance and understanding the legal issues of caring.