Helping carers navigate a new chapter
There is nothing permanent, except change – as the saying goes. For carers, change is part of everyday life and they are adept at getting used to new routines, making difficult decisions and finding balance.
Caring responsibilities rarely stay the same. Over time, the person being cared for may need more practical help, emotional support or assistance with everyday activities.
This can result in carers taking on extra responsibilities, changing working arrangements and ultimately finding there is less time for their own wellbeing.
Recognising when a caring situation is changing is an important first step. It’s an opportunity to review the support already in place and consider whether additional help may be needed.
This might include requesting a carer’s assessment, exploring available events and groups or speaking with healthcare professionals about changing care needs.
It’s also important to remember that asking for help is not a sign that you are struggling to cope. It is a way of making sure that you and the person you support have the right help in place as things change.
Navigating a hospital discharge
When someone you care for is ready to leave the hospital, it can be a moment of relief but it can also raise questions and concerns.
Will they need additional support at home? Will their mobility or independence have changed? What equipment, medication or follow-up appointments might be required?
As an unpaid carer, you have the right to be involved in discharge plans that affect you and to make an informed decision about how much care you are willing and able to provide when someone you care for is discharged from hospital.
There is some helpful information for carers on the Carers UK website.
In addition, Healthwatch England wants to hear from people who have been discharged from hospital after a stay of one or more nights. They really want to hear from people who had a difficult discharge experience. This is a national research project which the Healthwatch North Tyneside team is supporting. You can complete the online survey before Friday 9 October.
When caring needs change
Caring needs can change gradually over time or suddenly following an illness, or change in circumstances.
It’s important to recognise when your caring situation is changing and to know you don‘t have to manage everything alone.
Seeking advice, requesting a carer’s assessment or exploring additional support services can help make sure both you and the person you support receive the help you need.
Looking after yourself through change
During periods of transition, you can become so focused on making sure everything is in place for the person you support that you forget about your own needs.
Taking time to recognise your own feelings, speaking to someone you trust and accessing support can help make a new chapter feel more manageable.
You don’t need to have all the answers immediately, and you don’t have to manage every change on your own.
At North Tyneside Carers’ Centre, we know carers need support not only throughout their caring role, but also when their circumstances change.
We are here to provide information, guidance and a listening ear, so that carers feel supported all the way.
If you are experiencing a change in your caring role and would like to find out what support is available, get in touch with our team.
0191 2496480