Most carers are between the ages of 45 and 64, with a slightly higher proportion of women than men. However, many carers are outside that age group with many young carers caring for a parent, sibling or other relative.Many parent carers look after disabled children, and a large number of older people provide significant care to others.
Many carers provide personal care such as bathing, washing, dressing and toileting. Many also provide physical help with getting in and out of bed, walking and getting up and down stairs.
Caring for someone can be physically exhausting and emotionally demanding. Many carers have to give up employment, leading to loneliness, living on Government benefits and consequent financial difficulties.
If you are providing or intending to provide regular and substantial care you have a right to an assessment yourself. This can be at a time and place of your choosing. The assessment is undertaken by Social Services to look at what you need to begin or to continue caring.
You are entitled to an assessment even if the person you are caring for does not wish to have their own needs assessed.
The person who assesses you should look at the physical problems you might have as well as the employment, emotional and social side of your life.
Social Services may be able to provide services (e.g. breaks from caring - see respite care). Some will charge for these services, others will not. Costs will usually depend on your benefits, savings, or income.
May be provided through Social Services for a limited number of hours per week/fortnight for those who are unable to manage this for themselves. Help includes general household tasks (such as cooking or shopping). Depending on your financial circumstances there may be a charge for this service.
This service provides help with personal care, such as washing, bathing and dressing, getting up in the morning, or going to bed at night. Although this service is arranged through Social Services, they may provide staff themselves or they may buy services from independent agencies. Depending on your financial circumstances there may be a charge for this service. Laundry service for people who are incontinent.
Meals on wheels may be supplied for people of any age who are unable to cook their own meals. Social Service departments will be able to give you details but services may be supplied through a local voluntary organisation. There will generally be a charge for this service.
These can offer support to people every day, or a day or two a week/ fortnight. They may offer leisure activities such as arts and crafts, or services such as chiropody and hairdressing. Often lunch and transport can be provided. They are run by social services departments or voluntary organisations. There is usually a charge for meals and transport.
It is sometimes possible for people who are dependent on regular care to stay in a residential or nursing home for a while so that their carer can have a break. Care can also sometimes be provided in the home while a carer is away. A sitting service at home can also sometimes be arranged. There may be a charge.
The occupational therapy department within social services can sometimes loan equipment and can advise on adaptations to your home.
If you are unable to support yourself because of your caring responsibilities, you may be able to claim Income Support, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit, all of which have a Carer Premium. You may also be able to claim an extra carer's allowance (CA)