Are you a Carer?
A Carer is anyone who cares for a relative or friend, young or old, who is disabled due to a physical or mental impairment or by old age.
Many people do not associate themselves with the term Carer, they simply see themselves as relatives or friends doing their duty.
As a Carer you will have your own individual problems but there are problems that are the same for many carers.
About Carers
It is estimated that there are 6.8 million Carers in Britain of which 112,000 live in Derbyshire. Of these 40,000 care for someone in their own home and the rest care for someone living elsewhere.
The majority of Carers are aged between 40 and 60, however, a growing number are older and some are even younger than this. It is a mistaken view to assume that only women are Carers.
Carers perform tasks like general housework, personal care, dressing, feeding, bathing, and toileting. Caring may be physically arduous, involving lifting, transferring, aiding walking, pushing wheelchairs and dealing with incontinence. Giving care with little or no support, especially at night, can be mentally and physically exhausting.
Carers Registers
The government has asked GP’s to register all carers in each practice. This should enable carers to have access to the support services available in their area. .
Carers Health
A Carer’s health may be affected by the stresses and strains of caring. To avoid overlooking your own health needs, ask your GP or Practice Nurse about health checks for carers.
Carer Assessments
If you provide a substantial amount of care for someone, you may be entitled to an assessment from Social Services or the Carers Associations. From the assessment they will identify your needs as a Carer and provide appropriate services and help to assist you in your caring role.
How to Register As A Carer
Please print the form linked here and hand in to Reception. Alternatively, drop-in to the surgery and ask for a leaflet.
The Carers Association
Aims and Objectives
Amongst its aims are:
- The setting up of Support Groups
- Individual Confidential Support
- Home Visits
- Telephone Support Link-Lines
- Crisis Support
- Advocacy
- Advice and Information
- Campaigning for better resources
- Planning of services with the appropriate agencies
- Liasing with organisations with similar aims
- Providing Forums for consultation between Carers and service providers
Support Groups
Support Groups have been established in different parts of the county to support Carers locally. The groups give Carers the opportunity to discuss problems and share experiences together in an informal relaxed atmosphere.
If you need support either individually, through a group, or simply would like more information about the Carers Associations, please contact one of the telephone numbers on this leaflet.
Caring For Carers
Please call your local Association on:
Amber Valley 01773 749087
Bolsover 01246 824814
Burton 01283 239600
Chesterfield 01246 222373
Derby 01332 271761
Derby Dales North 01629 812132
Derby Dales South 01629 822124
Erewash 0115 9468881
Glossop 01457 858383
High Peak 01298 815441
North East Derbyshire 01246 222373
South Derbyshire 01332 200002
Southern Staffordshire 01785 606675
African & Caribbean
Community 01332 270072