I didn’t know the term “carer” when I first became one in 1999, but I soon felt the effects of isolation, anxiety and depression that are commonplace when looking after someone else long term. Caring for my young adult daughter, I felt I had fallen into a parallel world where my tedious role lacked definition and was merely a necessary extension of parenting. I wrote about my experiences in the Who cares? column for Society Guardian and was subsequently invited on to the inaugural Standing Commission on Carers set up by the last government. With a rapidly ageing population, it realised that the nation’s army of unpaid carers was integral and required support to continue its vital work.
Tag Archives: carersweek
But who looks after the carers?
GPs are at last realising that giving support early on can reduce the strain on those who care for family or friends
It is estimated that one in three adults will become a carer in the next 10 years.
Hospice to support carers
ST Richard’s Hospice is set to hold a day that highlights the importance of carers.
10:00am Sunday 10th June 2012 in News
The event, which will take place on Monday, June 18, will coincide with national Carers Week and feature exhibitors and a conference aimed at helping carers keep fit and healthy.
Worcester MP Robin Walker will chair the conference and speak about the government’s support.
Heather Richardson, clinical lead from Help the Hospices, will offer a national perspective on carers’ contribution and Mike Arnold, practice manager from Spring Gardens Medical Centre, will talk about a local project to support carers.
Free breaks offered to Wiltshire’s carers
GPs or nurses will be able to prescribe breaks worth up to £50
12:28pm Friday 8th June 2012 in News
A breaks scheme is being launched at GP surgeries across Wiltshire during Carers Week this year to give unpaid carers who are suffering ill health as a result of their role, or who have a long term health condition, the chance to have a free break.
GPs and practice nurses will be able to ‘prescribe’ a social, leisure or health break to those that they identify as a carer in order to give them an opportunity to take some time out from looking after a relative or friend who, due to illness, disability, age, eating disorder or substance misuse, is unable to manage without their help.
