Carers

Introduction

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Who is a carer?

A carer is

someone who looks after a friend, relative or neighbour who cannot manage without help because of age, illness or disability
may or may not live in the same house as the person they provide care for
not a person who is employed to provide care, and does not receive payment for providing care, other than benefits.

One carer's experience

"While my initial reaction to the assessment was somewhat apprehensive, it was carried out in complete privacy and confidentiality, and I found that very reassuring.The assessment helped me to realise that I too had needs, and if these needs were not met the stress could lead to me failing to provide proper care as a carer. Finally, the assessment has given me the courage to request that my needs are adequately met."

If you meet some or all of the following, you are a carer and you could ask Social Services - Adult Care Services to make a Carer's Assessment of your needs:

looking after someone who could not manage without your help because of age, illness or disability
providing, or intending to provide, regular and substantial amounts of care
providing a wide range of help including physical and personal care
under 18 or over 75, or ill or disabled yourself.

We greatly value the work done by carers, and do not take it for granted when carrying out assessments.

Help and support

Help and support is available for carers and remember, you do not have to be living with the person you care for to receive help and support.

The South West Yorkshire Mental Health Trust has produced a Carers Information Pack: Information for carers|. It has been written by a carer for carers. The pack will help carers access information outside of normal working hours.

You can find out about help and support from a Customer Services Advisor at any Social Services - Adut Social Care office or by contacting Calderdale carers project.