New To Caring
Carers In Bedfordshire
New To Caring
If you have just become a carer or have been for a while but not accessed any support then you are in the right place.
Below we have put together what we think is the essential information and services you need to know and you can also download the Bedfordshire Carers Guide which has all of the useful contact information you might need.
If you have not already registered with us then do so now so you an access all of our support and services.
Make sure to register with us to have access to all our support services.
Leaving Hospital
If the person you are caring for is coming out of hospital there are some important considerations, especially if this will mean you will be taking on caring for the first time.
Local Support
There are a lot of schemes and local support organisations to help you and your family as you care for your loved one. We’ve picked out a few here that have have been useful to carers in the past.
Tell others about your caring role
It can be difficult to identify as a ‘carer’. Many carers tell us they are simply doing what anyone would and looking after their loved ones.
It’s important that you tell others, including your friends and family, you are in a caring role as they can act as your support network when you need it.
Telling your GP is also important so they are better able to support you better. for example then can let you know about schemes such as free flu jabs and other health initiatives that may benefit you as a carer.
Talk to Other Carers
Being a carer can be demanding, and relentless at times and it is important to get as much support as you can. Peer support is when people use their own experiences to help each other. We can help you find your peers.
Many carers find that talking to other carers about their experiences can both help them with caring but also they find new valuable friendships for themselves.
Remember to look after yourself
Caring for a loved one can be emotionally exhausting and at times you may feel you are struggling to cope. This is not unusual and you are certainly not alone. We always try to remind carers to recognise their own needs so that they remain well enough to care.
Talking to other carers is often the best support carers can have. Knowing you are not alone and hearing how other carers stories can be a great support.
Plan Ahead
When you care for someone, life cannot simply be put on hold when the person you are looking after relies on you for vital help and support.
We advise all carers to create an emergency plan – for you and all those you look after. Having a plan in place can help ease your worries if you are not able to care for those you look after at any point in the future.
Talk To Us
If you are unsure of something or want to offload then we are just a phone call away.
One of our experienced support workers is available to speak to you by phone Monday to Friday between 9.00am and 5pm.
For those carers who are most in need, we provide a named support worker who will be in regular contact to support you in your caring role.
Through this support we can:
- Offer advice and information
- Signpost you to other organisations who can help you
- Talk to you about your rights as a carer
- Help with emergency planning
- Give emotional support
- Provide a listening ear
Register With Us
By registering with us as a carer you will get access to a whole range of services, including advice, information, access to our groups, events and carers grants.
Need To Talk To Someone?
You can book a call with one of our support workers and talk to them about any of your concerns.
