Some people are not aware that they are classed as a carer which restricts the amount of support they are entitled to.
Do you look after someone and provide them with unpaid care to a family member/partner/neighbour or friend? Could these people manage on a day to day basis without you?
If you have answered yes to 1 or both of the above it is highly likely you are a carer!
What is a carer?
A carer is an individual that helps 1 or more people living with an illness or disability with no payment. A carer can be of any age or gender and are amongst all of our communities.
Someone who helps individuals with;
- Personal care/hygiene – helping them to wash, dress themselves or use the toilet.
- Domestic – Helping a person around the house from cooking to cleaning.
- Emotional – To be a listening ear and understanding of what they want, from what they need to what support they need
- Financially – Helping individuals to manage their finances such as paying bills on time
- Liaising – liaising with professionals or keeping other important people up to date with any changes
Unfortunately, people who do not recognise themself as a carer which restricts them in finding out who they can be helped and also cared for should they need a little extra support.
It is important that the carer is caring for themself and that they are aware of what support is out there to help them help their loved one.
North Staffordshire Carers is a free service that can help advise and guide you in taking care of yourself and others.
The link below allows you to explore the NSC further to find out if this is right for you and how to contact them. The service is for all ages within the Stoke on Trent area.
S-O-T All Age Carers Service | North Staffs Carers (carersfirst.com)
