Adapting to Caring
When you become a carer there are many things to consider. This section highlights the areas you need to consider
Click here for Finances and Coronavirus Updates
Accessing Services - Carers Stories
Helping Someone to Remain Independent at Home
When you become a carer there are many things to consider. This section highlights the areas you need to consider
Click here for Finances and Coronavirus Updates
Accessing Services - Carers Stories
In a Crisis
No one plans for a crisis to happen and when they do it can be difficult to know who you can turn to for help especially if it is out of hours.
If you are not sure that medical treatment is needed then you can ring NHS 111 which is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They will help to make a decision as to whether you need to see a medical professional. They can book you an appointment at the Urgent Treatment Centre, Cauldwell Medical Centre, Bedford Hospital or at Luton Town Centre Urgent Treatment Centre.
There is also a NHS Walk-in Centre at Putnoe Medical Centre, Bedford, MK41 9JE which is open Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays from 8am to 4pm. Don’t forget that many of the major supermarkets have a pharmacist who will be able to offer advice.
If the person you care for has been receiving care from the Bedfordshire Community Health Service then you can speak to qualified nurses 24/7. Contact them on 0345 602 4064
If you are concerned about issues around a person’s safety whether it is a child or an adult you can contact the local councils social services department on 0300 300 8123.
If the person you care for is experiencing a mental health crisis then you can contact the Crisis team on 01234 315 691. If the situation is life critical then ring 999 for assistance.
If you are struggling to cope emotionally and need someone to talk to, the Samaritans are happy for you to ring them on 116 123. You don’t need to be suicidal to access their 24/7 service.
Life after Caring
Support for Former Carers at Carers in Bedfordshire
Getting into employment by Carers in Bedfordshire
Local Support Groups
CHUMS - Bereavement Support for children
Cruse Bereavement Support - Counselling Service based in Bedfordshire
Jolly Dollies a social network for widows
Talking Elephants a monthly bereavement support group in Luton & Hitchin run by Neville Funerals
National Support
On-line Bereavement Counselling with Sue Ryder
Way Up - a website supporting those widowed in their 50s and 60s.
Widowed & Young - a website supporting those aged 50 or under who have been widowed.
After Umbrage If you have recently lost someone you have been caring for and would like to go on a short break then After Umbrage offers a cottage free of charge.