Did you know that 6.5 million people in the UK are carers; that’s 1 in 8 adults? Growing numbers of people are taking on caring roles for family and friends, which can be a hugely rewarding experience, enriching relationships and bringing satisfaction and well-being. However, up to 50% of Carers miss the support they need to stay mentally and physically healthy whilst caring. It’s more important than ever to shine a spotlight on the huge contribution carers make and reach out with information and support.
My name is Renae Crockford and I am part of the Nursing Team at Western Vale Family Practice, I am also the Carer and Dementia Champion. We are very privileged to have lots of support available in the Vale and it’s part of my job to connect patients and their Carers with these services. There really is something for everyone!
At Western Vale Family Practice, we pride ourselves on providing excellent support to our patients and through my role I can take time to listen and understand your particular needs, signpost you to the support that is available and help you to engage in local clubs and groups, potentially meeting others in similar situations.
If you ever feel that you need specific guidance or support as a Carer and you are a patient at Western Vale Family Practice, please feel free to arrange an appointment with me, Renae Crockford appointments can be made at Cowbridge Health Centre, St Athan Surgery or Llantwit Major Clinic.
Are You a Carer?
If you are please let us know – we may be able to help you
There is a wealth of information on NHS Choices 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
- 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.
Carers support groups
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
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Information on claiming tax credits and whether you might be eligible
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Please find below a link to the latest edition of the Caring Times – the newsletters for carers living in the Vale of Glamorgan.
