Carers
You are a carer if you are spending a substantial amount of time on a regular basis looking after or supporting a relative, partner or friend who is unable to live independently and who cannot manage without your help.
Carers are people of all ages including children, young people and parent carers. The looked after person may need help because they:
are very frail
have a physical disability
have a learning disability
have a physical health problem
Carers help out in a number of ways, such as assisting someone with:
dressing
bathing
shopping
cooking
cleaning
getting about
Some carers help by keeping an eye on someone to try and make sure that they:
do not harm themselves
take their medication properly and
get other help if things get worse
For some carers, such as those caring for people with mental illness or learning disabilities, caring may be about constantly reassuring and encouraging or keeping an eye on the person.
Caring for someone can be rewarding, especially when you can see the person is well and living safely at home; but it is often hard work leaving carers exhausted and feeling that they have no life of their own.
Carers assessment
Carers can have the right to receive a carer's assessment to assess how you can receive support in your caring role. If you are a carer and think you need support you can talk to your GP, Brent Carers Centre or contact Brent Council One Stop Service to request a carer's assessment, or ask the social worker or care manager of the person you care for.
You can view more information if you are a Young Carer or if you are Caring for someone who is a disabled child or young person
For further information see http://www.carersuk.org/ or go to www.direct.gov.uk/en/CaringForSomeone/DG_071391
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