Carers

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A carer is someone who provides unpaid support to a family member, partner, friend or neighbour. This could be because they are ill, frail, disabled, have mental ill health or substance misuse problems. These people could not manage at home without support.

If you are a carer for someone you may be providing practical help such as cleaning, cooking or physical tasks such as bathing, lifting and dressing. You may be giving emotional support or have to keep a close eye on the person you care for.

Most people who look after relatives or friends are happy to do so but caring for someone can be demanding and there is a range of help available to support you in your caring role. The Wiltshire Handbook for Carers 1.1mb Carers handbook 2013 was launched during Carers Week in June 2012 and was published in partnership by Wiltshire Council and NHS Wiltshire. It contains useful information for carers and is available free from your GP surgery or you can contact the carers coordinator at Wiltshire Council.

Emma Slater - Careres coordinator
Carers Support Wiltshire
0800 066 5068
Email: carersemergencycard@wiltshire.gov.uk

According to the 2001 Census there are 39,886 carers in Wiltshire. Around 3 in 5 people will be a carer at some point in their lives.

The Wiltshire definition of a young carer is:

'A child or young person (up to the age of 25) whose life is affected by caring, over and above just helping out'

• A guide to assessment of carer needs A guide to assessment of carers needs 1mb

Training for carers

Training is offered to informal unpaid carers and covers many aspects of caring.

Learn more, gain insight, receive help and support but most of all be informed. Many topics are covered, including:

• manual handing;
• basic first aid;
• benefit awareness; managing money and paying for care;
• computer training;
• mental capacity act; and
• dementia training.

To look at the most up to date training and education programme visit www.carersinwiltshire.co.uk and select the training and education programme link.

Benefits, managing money and paying for care

Age UK Wiltshire and Carer Support Wiltshire are offering a free session for anyone interested in finding out more about benefit entitlement, managing money, paying for care and planning for the future.

You can find more information in our Introduction to benefits, managing money and paying for care 202kb Introduction to benefits, managing money and paying for care leaflet.

Look for a convenient date near to you and make your reservation now.

Last updated: 16 April 2013