Becoming a Carer
A carer is someone who looks after a partner, parent, a child, a relative, a friend or a neighbour and who does not get paid for caring. They look after someone who has;
- A long term illness
- A disability
- Mental health problems
- Learning disabilities
- Frailty due to old age which means they cannot be completely independent
Some carers provide 24/7 care, others may only provide a few hours a week to help someone who is unable to do everything for themselves.
Many people do not consider they are carers and comments such as “I do Mum’s shopping because she can’t get out now” and “I keep an eye on the old man next door” are common place. Many people in need of help are supported by their families. Husbands and wives, sons and daughters, uncles and aunts just assume that it is expected that they will look after a loved one, but they are carers.
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An assessment is the way in which we find out about what you do as a carer and how it affects your life.
To request an assessment or for more information contact your Adults and Communities Local Office You may ask for an assessment even if the person you are caring for doesn’t want an assessment
- You can ask for a full assessment as a carer. This is usually if you find caring difficult and can’t cope
- You can ask for an assessment if you intend to care for someone in the future, for example when someone leaves hospital or is planning to come and live with you
The assessment may be part of the Single Assessment Process, which is a new way of organisations working together with you to provide services in a joined up way.
- How long will the assessment take?
- What will happen if I agree to an assessment?
- What happens after the assessment?
- Arranging services
Your Care Plan
If we are going to provide or arrange services we will make a written agreement with you. This is called a Care Plan, and you will be issued with a copy.
The care plan will tell you and the person you care for:
- What service(s) you will receive and for how long
- Who will provide each service
- When and where each service will be provided
- If there will be a charge.
- Help and Support for you as a Carer How Long Will it Take?
- Help and Support for you as a Carer What Happens Next?
- Help and Support for your as a Carer Arranging Services
- Help and Support for you as a Carer When will the Service Start?
- Help and Support for you as a Carer Will I be Charged for the Service?
