The support you might not know is available to carers
This month we are focusing on the support available to adult unpaid carers who are often so busy looking after someone else that they might not have the time to think about their own needs.
The first step is recognising you are a carer because that will open the door to the support available.
Visit our website for some helpful information about signs you could be a carer.
Here are some things carers may not realise are available.
You can ask for a Carer’s Assessment
Every adult carer in the UK has the legal right to a Carer’s Assessment. You don’t need to be living with the person you care for, and you don’t need to be providing a certain number of hours. If your caring role is impacting your life, your work, health, social connections, or mental wellbeing – you can request one. It can lead to support such as respite, information, practical help, and financial guidance. If you need support arranging one or want help preparing, we are here to help.
Energy supplier help
The Priority Services Register is designed for people who may need additional help from their energy supplier or network operator. The person you care for may be eligible because of factors such as disability, a long-term health condition, age or reliance on certain medical equipment. Support can include accessible communications and additional help during interruptions to the energy supply. Carers may be able to help the person they support register, with their permission.
Libraries offer much more than books
Your local library may be an unexpectedly useful source of support. They can offer home library services for people who can’t easily visit, accessible books and audiobooks, digital resources, community activities and information about local services.
We have teamed up with North Tyneside Libraries to start a new Reading for Wellbeing group for carers. Just bring a book and join us. It starts at 1.30pm on Wednesday 16 September at Whitley Bay Community Hub and Library.
You may be able to get discounted travel
Depending on the circumstances of the person you care for and where you live, there may be travel concessions that make getting around together cheaper. Rail travel is also worth investigating. A Disabled Persons Railcard can provide discounts for both the eligible passenger and an adult companion travelling with them.
If transport costs are a regular part of your caring role, it’s worth checking what is available locally rather than assuming you have to pay the standard fare.
Joining a carers group could help more than you think it will
Joining a carers group or online community can help you learn tips from people in similar situations, share concerns without judgment, stay informed about changes in rights or local support and feel less alone. At North Tyneside Carers’ Centre we run several support groups, meet-ups, and training sessions which are all designed to support you as a carer and build your confidence. If you would like to find out more, get in touch on the details below or visit our website.
Planning for an emergency can make a difficult situation easier
One question carers often worry about is: “What happens if something happens to me?” Having an emergency plan can provide some reassurance. It might include details of the person you care for, their medication and routines, important contacts, who could step in temporarily and anything somebody would need to know to keep them safe.
Attractions and venues may offer free carer or companion tickets
Museums, theatres, music venues, festivals, theme parks, sporting venues and visitor attractions sometimes offer free or discounted admission for a carer or essential companion accompanying a disabled visitor.
These tickets aren’t always prominently advertised, so it’s worth checking the accessibility section of a venue’s website or asking before booking.
Carers can get a free cinema ticket when visiting a participating cinema with the person they care for by using the Cinema CEA Card. The card costs £6.50 per year. For more information, click here.
If you are unsure where to begin, get in touch with us at North Tyneside Carers’ Centre and we can help.
0191 2496480
You can also complete an Adult Carer Self-Referral Form through our website.