Caring for Someone?

Whether you care for someone born with heart condition, or are someone born with a heart condition that cares for someone else it is really important to take care and look after yourself as well. However much you might want to look after someone, caring responsibilities can at times be tiring, stressful and take an emotional toll. Here are 20 tips in how to deal with those low times on the Carers UK website.

Read more about the issues of caring in a family context in this article that appeared in Guch News Summer 2011: Do you care?

Remember it is okay to ask for help. Find out what you are entitled too as a Carer and to get as much support as possible. As a Carer you are also entitled to have your needs assessed by Social Services (a Carers Assessment) as well as the person who needs care. Check out this pdf from Carers UK for more information: Looking After Someone a guide to carers' rights and benefits 2011/12.

Carers UK Carers UK is an organisation that has a wealth of information on all aspects of caring including:

· Lots of information on the different aspects of caring

· Practical advice for in the home such as aids and adaptations

· Help with care and respite

· Help with money and information on benefits such as Carers Allowance, Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance.

· They can put you in touch with local carers groups that meet and offer practical advice and support in your area.

· Online support forum and advice line Carers Advice Line 0808 808 7777 (Wednesday and Thursday 10am -12pm and 2pm - 4pm)

Carers Northern Ireland (Advice line 028 9043 9843 Northern Ireland)

Carers Scotland

Carers Wales

Some other helpful organisations are:

Princess Royal Trust for Carers

Crossroads Care

Disabled Living Foundation

At some point caring might end due to bereavement which can be a very painful time of transition. Here are links to bereavement support organisations who are there to support people with their loss.

If you would like to talk through how you are managing as a Carer or have any questions about support please contact Anne Crump Mental Health Support Worker.