Help for Carers

Are You a Carer?

We understand it is hard work being a carer. If there is someone who depends on you, please let us know. If you are suddenly taken ill, we will know that the person you care for will also need help.

There are many places you can get support. You are not alone.

The Carers Centre in Tameside offer lots of practical support. They’d love to hear from you.

There is a wealth of information on NHS UK about carers and caring. Below are some links into the site that we hope you will find useful.

• Caring for a parent

  Watch this video on: caring for a parent at home

• Telling people

  Caring responsibilities can make it difficult to maintain friendships or develop new ones. Telling your friends you’re a carer is important so they understand and can support you.

• Taking a break

  Caring for someone can be a full-time job, but it’s essential that you take time out for yourself too. Read our guide to accessing breaks and respite.

• Housing and carers

  Do you know your tenancy rights as a carer? Are you aware of all your care at home options? Do you need tips on moving someone around the home?

Contact Carers Direct

Telephone: 0808 802 0202

Helpline Information: http://www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/carerslives/updates/pages/carersdirecthelpline.aspx

Email: CarersDirect@nhschoices.nhs.uk

Office Hours: Lines are open 8am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 11am to 4pm at weekends. Calls are free from UK landlines.

Finance and Law

Help claiming benefits, looking after your bank balance and understanding the legal issues of caring.

• Benefits for carers

  Directing carers to the benefits that can help them in their caring role

• Benefits for the person you care for

  Advice and information on helping the person you look after get the benefits that they are entitled to

• Death and benefits

  How your benefits maybe affected after the death of the person you look after and what happens to their benefits

• Managing someone’s legal affairs

  Advice for when carers find they have to take over the legal affairs of the person they are looking after

• Other benefits

  Advice for carers and the people they are looking after on claiming a whole host of other benefits unrelated to their disability or caring

• Personal and household finance

  Advice on keeping a tight rein on household and personal finance for carers

• Social fund
• Tax credits

  Information on claiming tax credits and whether you might be eligible