Carers - Information and Support
If you help another person who needs support to live in their home then you may be a Carer. The person you care for could be mentally or physically disabled, ill or elderly and frail. They could be your parent, child, partner, relative or friend.
The Open University Free - Caring for Adults Course
Caring for adults is an introductory course for anyone in a caring role, either paid or unpaid. It builds on what you already know to give you a better understanding of your role as a carer. It also supports your own well-being by giving you some ideas and information about looking after yourself and dealing with stress.
After studying this course, you will be able to:
- describe the role and responsibilities of carers
- recognise some of the basic concepts that will enable a person-centred approach to care
- identify the different needs of a cared-for person, at different stages of their care
- understand the impact that caring may have upon carers, and how this might be managed
- explain some of the legal responsibilities within the caring role.
Support for Carers
Carers Hub Lewisham Support Carers in the London Borough of Lewisham. They provide practical and emotional support to unpaid carers, empowering people who care for a family menmber, neighbour or close friend to actively manage the challenges they face and thrive.
Their services include:
- Information and Advice providing practical support, such as applying for a Carers Assessment, welfare benefits or emergency grants.
- Specialist services tailored to people who care for someone with dementia or mental health needs.
- Health and Wellbeing activities that help carers exercise, relax and share experiences with others.
Imago – Maximising Wellbeing of Unpaid Carers - Supporting Unpaid Carers to access the support they need.
Imago deliver the Maximising Wellbeing of Unpaid Carers, which supports Adult Carers across the borough of Lewisham. If you are an unpaid carer or know someone who provides care but is not getting paid, help and support are available.
If you or someone you know is an unpaid carer, please get in touch. Their Proud to Care family will ensure that you are valued, visible to others, and fully supported.
Financial Support for Carers - Benefits and financial support if you're caring for someone.
Independent Age recognise that caring for someone can be demanding, both emotionally and financially. They have lots of information in their Support for Carers Section and want to make sure you know your rights as a carer and can check what support and benefits are available to help you and the person you care for.
Community Connections Lewisham have a weekly drop in clinic with a Department for Work and Pensions Advisor visit their Thursday Drop in webpage for further information.
Carer's Wellbeing
Lewisham Council recognise that as a carer, it is important that you are also aware of your own physical and mental health.
Read more on what you can access locally to support your mental and physical wellbeing.
Community Connections Lewisham can connect you with groups, activities and services in our local community that can support your health and wellbeing ~ bringing Lewisham to you!
Supporting a person with dementia can be positive and rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Looking after yourself is important for both you and the person you are supporting. The Alzheimer's Society has a lot of supportive information including
Carers Emergencies
Lewisham Council has Information and Support for Young Carers on their website.
Including information on:
- Who counts as a young carer
- What support we offer young carers
- Links between children and adult services
Carers Hub Lewisham provide a wide range of tailored support to young carers aged 5-25, all of which are divided by age, enabling young people to meet friends with similar ages and ensuring we provide the support that is right for each person.
If you're a young carer and would like advice and support contact the Carers Hub for a chat.
Imago – Maximising Wellbeing of Unpaid Carers - Supporting Unpaid Carers to access the support they need.
Imago deliver the Maximising Wellbeing of Unpaid Carers, which supports Young Adult Carers and Young Carers across the borough of Lewisham. If you are an unpaid carer or know someone who provides care but is not getting paid, help and support are available.
If you or someone you know is an unpaid carer, please get in touch. Their Proud to Care family will ensure that you are valued, visible to others, and fully supported.
Other Useful Links for Carers
Professionals using too much jargon?
If you're finding it difficult to navigate the mind field of jargon that can often be used by professionals in the care and support occupations Think Local Act Personal have a useful Jargon Buster that can help carers understand the language that is commonly used in care and support work.
Information for Professionals Supporting Carers
If you're a profesional supporting a Carer there's lots of helpful information on the ADASS Supporting Carers Hub.
Local Support for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers is offered by Carers Lewisham.
Read more in our Information for Professionals section.