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Loading ๐Ÿ‘ช Carer Support Overview

๐Ÿ“˜
Understanding Your Role as a Carer

Being a carer means that you look after someone who needs help, such as a family member, friend, or neighbour who is ill, disabled, elderly, or has a mental health condition. You may help them with everyday tasks like washing, dressing, cooking, giving medication, taking them to appointments, or offering them company and support.

๐Ÿ“‹
Types of Carers

Some carers look after children with additional needs, while others support adults. You might provide care full-time or part-time, or you may live with the person you care for or visit them regularly. Carers can be:

  • Parent carers (caring for a disabled child under 18)
  • Young carers (under 18 looking after a parent, sibling, or other family member)
  • Adult carers (aged 18 and over)
  • Older carers (aged 65+)
  • Working carers (balancing job and caring role)
  • Sibling, partner, or friend carers

Carers are unpaid, even though the role can sometimes feel like a job.

๐Ÿ› ๏ธ
What Does a Typical Caring Role Involve?

Every caring role is different, but often includes:

  • Helping the person you care for move around their home
  • Supporting with personal care (such as washing, toileting, and dressing)
  • Preparing and giving food and drinks
  • Making sure medication is taken correctly
  • Providing company and emotional support
  • Managing bills and appointments
  • Helping with shopping, housework, and organising transport

Caring can sometimes feel overwhelming. Itโ€™s important to look after your own health too.

๐Ÿงก
Support You Can Expect as a Carer

You do not need to cope alone. In Peterborough, there are services made to support you. These may include:

  • Information and advice about your rights as a carer
  • Help with getting a break from caring (respite)
  • Emotional support and counselling services
  • Joining local carer support groups
  • Training for carers (like moving and handling, managing medication)
  • Support with benefits and finances
  • Help to plan for emergencies

Peterborough City Council and local organisations know how important unpaid carers are and prioritise your wellbeing.

๐Ÿ“ž
Local Services for Carers in Peterborough

There are dedicated services for unpaid carers in Peterborough:

  1. Making Space โ€“ Peterborough Carer Support Service:
    They offer support, one-to-one help, carer groups, practical advice, emotional support, and activities.
    Website: https://www.makingspace.co.uk/
    Phone: 01480 211006
    Email: PeterboroughCWS@makingspace.co.uk

  2. Peterborough City Council has a page for carers with information on rights, support, and emergency planning.
    Visit: https://fis.peterborough.gov.uk/kb5/peterborough/directory/adult.page?adultchannel=8

  3. Local support groups and activities can connect you with other carers to share experiences and advice. Making Space can help you join these.

  4. Health services โ€“ You can ask your GP to note your caring role on your medical record. This means you can prioritise your own health, and some surgeries offer carer check-ins.

  5. Adult Social Care โ€“ For advice on assessments and planning support for both you and the person you care for, contact Peterborough City Council (via the link above).

๐ŸŒผ
How to Get More Help

  • Contact Making Space for easy-to-understand advice and someone to talk to
  • Look into your rights for a Carerโ€™s Assessment through Peterborough City Council
  • See if you can access local volunteer help, meal delivery, transport schemes, and sitting services
  • Get support in your language or for specific communities via local charities and the council
  • Use free training sessions to build your confidence with different caring skills

๐Ÿ“
Next Steps

  1. Register as a carer with your GP and local services
  2. Ask for a Carerโ€™s Assessment to see what extra help you may be entitled to
  3. Join local groups to meet others who understand what youโ€™re going through
  4. Keep the contact details of Making Space and the Council on hand

To find out more about support for carers they can visit the Peterborough Council website at: https://fis.peterborough.gov.uk/kb5/peterborough/directory/adult.page?adultchannel=8

Remember, looking after yourself helps you look after the person you care for. You are not aloneโ€”support is here for you in Peterborough.

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Carers' Trust

The Carers' Trust is the largest provider of comprehensive carers support services in the UK.

Age UK

We aim to provide life-enhancing services and vital support to people in later life. We and our local partners deliver a range of services across the UK.

Our local Age UKs run a variety of different services. Not all services take place in every area, but all local Age UKs will be able to help you find what you're looking for.

Bridgit

Bridgit Care understand that being an unpaid carer is one of the most important jobs out there. But it can sometimes feel lonely and like you're unsupported. Which is why we're always here to listen and help. We believe technology should be designed with and for carers and the ones they support.

Email: contact@bridgit.care



Carers UK

Carers UK give expert advice, information and support to carers in order to make their life better.

Carers UK are available to make sure that no matter how complicated your query or your experience, you don't have to care alone.

They have an expert telephone advice and support service for if you want to talk about caring. And if you're looking for answers, they have online information and support.

Carers UK continually campaign for carers rights, alongside having online support groups and volunteering opportunities.

Veterans Gateway

Veteransโ€™ Gateway โ€“ information, advice and support for veterans and their families Here for you 24/7, we are the first point of contact for veterans and their loved ones. We can directly refer you to our verified, expert partners including Combat Stress, SSAFA, Poppy Scotland and more.

Carers UK Animated Video Guides

Carers UK animation series covers a wide variety of topics to help you understand what support and benefits are available to help you look after someone as well as yourself.
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Loading ๐Ÿ›Œ Respite Care Overview

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Care Quality Commission

Inspects and reports on care services, care homes and hospitals.

Care.com

The Care.com digital platform provides a simple, comprehensive solution for finding, managing and paying for family care needs; including elderly care, child care, special needs care, pet care and housekeeping.
More than one million carers worldwide are already signed up, and you can filter through them by postcode and the specific tasks you need help with, such as bed changing or grocery shopping.

Beacon

Beacon provide free expert advice and affordable representation for families who are struggling to navigate the maze of NHS Continuing Healthcare.
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Veterans Gateway

Veteransโ€™ Gateway โ€“ information, advice and support for veterans and their families Here for you 24/7, we are the first point of contact for veterans and their loved ones. We can directly refer you to our verified, expert partners including Combat Stress, SSAFA, Poppy Scotland and more.

Discount for Carers

Discounts for Carers is a dedicated service that connects those who work in the care sector to money-saving discounts with the biggest brands. Regardless of whether you are a carer for a friend, a family member, or if you work in the care sector professionally.

Discounts for Carers have a wide variety of discounts and exclusive offers available, from hundreds of brands. It is free to join and you can save money at the places you love with vouchers, discounts and cashback.

Action Fraud

Action Fraud is the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Action Fraud is run by the City of London Police working alongside the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB). They provide a central point of contact for information about fraud and financially motivated internet crime. They want to help people who have been scammed, ripped off or conned everyday.

 

Turn2us

Turn2us is a national charity that provides practical help to people who are struggling financially. They provide information, support and tools to help people who are in need.

Turn2us has a benefits calculator to show you what benefits you may be entitled to and a grants search which identifies any additional grants you may be eligible for.

Money Helper

Free guidance on everyday money matters, family and care, budgeting, pensions and lots more.

Unbiased Financial Advisors

Unbiased is a financial advisers company that can find local financial advisers to help you with your financial needs.

They have connections with over 27,000 qualified financial advisers, mortgage brokers and accountants meaning they can put you in touch with someone local or close to you within the UK.

Citizens Advice Bureau

Citizens Advice provide people with free good quality, informative advice so they can have the knowledge and confidence to move forward in their situation. They believe that no one should have to face their problems alone, whoever you are and whatever your problem.

No one else sees so many people with so many different kinds of problems, and that gives Citizens Advice a unique insight into the challenges people are facing today.

Step Change

If you need free advice on problem debt, you can call StepChange. Their team of debt experts can help you find the solutions you need.

Beacon

Beacon provide free expert advice and affordable representation for families who are struggling to navigate the maze of NHS Continuing Healthcare.

Carers UK Animated Video Guides

Carers UK animation series covers a wide variety of topics to help you understand what support and benefits are available to help you look after someone as well as yourself.
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Loading ๐Ÿ’ท Carers Allowance Overview

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Understanding Carer's Allowance in Peterborough

๐Ÿ” What is Carer's Allowance?
Carer's Allowance is a financial support designed for individuals who dedicate a significant amount of time to caring for someone with a disability or illness. In Peterborough, as across the UK, this payment is aimed at helping carers manage their duties more effectively by providing them with a weekly payment.

For the year 2024/25, the payment rate is set at ยฃ81.90 per week. This can provide essential support in covering daily expenses or in maintaining a balance between caring responsibilities and personal needs.

๐Ÿ“‹ Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for Carer's Allowance, you need to meet the following conditions:

  1. Caring Time: You must care for someone for at least 35 hours a week.
  2. Income Threshold: Your weekly earnings after deductions (like tax and National Insurance) must not exceed ยฃ151.
  3. Qualifying Benefits: The person you care for must be receiving one of the qualifying disability benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
  4. Other Requirements: You must be over 16 years old, not in full-time education, and satisfy UK residence and immigration conditions.

๐Ÿ–ฅ๏ธ How to Apply
You can apply for Carer's Allowance online through the GOV.UK website, which provides a straightforward application process. Alternatively, you can apply by post using form DS700, or DS700(SP) if you are receiving the State Pension.

๐ŸŒ Local Support in Peterborough
If you need assistance with your application or have any queries regarding Carer's Allowance, Peterborough City Council and local organisations like Making Space can provide guidance. You can reach Making Space via phone at 01480 211006 or by email at PeterboroughCWS@makingspace.co.uk for personalised support.

๐Ÿ“˜ Additional Information and Resources
It's crucial to note that receiving Carer's Allowance might affect other benefits you or the person you care for are receiving. It's advisable to seek guidance on how your overall benefits might be impacted. For more detailed advice on Carer's Allowance and other benefits, visit the Caring Together website, which offers extensive resources tailored to carers.

Carer's Allowance is more than just a payment; it's a recognition of the invaluable work that carers like you do every day in Peterborough. Whether you're just starting on your caring journey or looking to understand the benefits you're entitled to, remember that help and support are always available.

For any further assistance or to start your application, please don't hesitate to reach out to local services or explore the links provided. Your role as a carer is essential, and accessing the right support can make all the difference.

Exploring Financial Support for Carers in Peterborough

๐ŸŒผ Understanding Carer's Allowance Eligibility
Carer's Allowance is a payment for those who spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone with significant care needs. If you believe you might not meet the criteria for this allowance due to your earnings or other factors, there are certainly other avenues of support you can explore in Peterborough.

๐ŸŒผ Local Support Services
Firstly, Peterborough City Council offers a range of support for carers. This includes assessments to determine your needs as a carer and advice on accessing other forms of support. You can contact the council directly to inquire about these services, which are tailored to help you manage both your caring responsibilities and your own wellbeing.

๐ŸŒผ Alternative Financial Support
If Carer's Allowance isn't suitable for you, consider other financial support options such as:

  • Universal Credit: If you're on a low income or unemployed, you might be eligible for Universal Credit, which can include additional amounts for carers.
  • Council Tax Reduction: You might be eligible for a reduction on your council tax. Peterborough City Council can provide guidance on how to apply.
  • Pension Credit: If you are of pension age, Pension Credit might be an option, and being a carer could increase the amount you're eligible for.
  • Disability Benefits: Ensure that the person you care for is receiving all the disability benefits they're entitled to, such as Personal Independence Payment or Disability Living Allowance, as this can indirectly support your financial situation.

๐ŸŒผ Making Space
For tailored support and advice, Making Space in Peterborough offers specific services for carers, including financial advice and how to manage your caring responsibilities effectively. You can reach them via phone at 01480 211006 or email at PeterboroughCWS@makingspace.co.uk. They can offer personalised advice and guide you through applications for benefits and additional support.

๐ŸŒผ Additional Resources
For more detailed information on other kinds of support and benefits, visit Caring Together which provides comprehensive guidance tailored for carers.

๐ŸŒผ Applying for Carer's Allowance
Even if you think you might not be eligible, it can sometimes be worth applying for Carer's Allowance as your circumstances might allow for it. You can get step-by-step guidance and apply online here.

๐ŸŒผ Income Threshold and More Information
Remember, to be eligible for Carer's Allowance, your weekly earnings must be ยฃ151 or less after deductions. For more in-depth information about Carer's Allowance and other benefits, you can visit the Caring Together Money and Benefits page.

By exploring these options and reaching out to local services, you can find the support you need to manage your finances while fulfilling your caring responsibilities in Peterborough.

Understanding Eligibility for Carer's Allowance Based on Care Hours ๐Ÿ•’

If you're caring for someone in Peterborough and wondering if you meet the necessary care hours to claim Carer's Allowance, here's a straightforward guide to help you determine your eligibility.

Minimum Hours of Care Required ๐Ÿ“…

To qualify for Carer's Allowance, you must be providing care for at least 35 hours a week. This care can include a wide range of tasks such as:

  • Helping with personal care (like bathing, dressing, or using the toilet)
  • Assisting with mobility
  • Managing the medication or treatment of the person you care for
  • Supervising the person you care for to ensure they are safe
  • Preparing meals for them

It's important to note that these 35 hours can include time spent physically caring, as well as other tasks related to caring, such as time spent shopping for their essentials or cleaning for them.

Tracking Your Care Hours โฑ๏ธ

To ensure you meet the required hours, it might be helpful to keep a log of your caring activities throughout the week. This can be as simple as noting down the times you start and finish caring tasks each day. Not only does this help in confirming you meet the threshold, but it can also be useful documentation when applying for Carer's Allowance.

Applying for Carer's Allowance ๐Ÿ“

Once you're confident you meet the 35-hour requirement, the next step is to apply for Carer's Allowance. You can do this easily online or by post. For detailed instructions and to start your application, visit the GOV.UK Carer's Allowance page.

Local Support in Peterborough ๐ŸŒ

In Peterborough, you can also seek guidance and support from local organisations dedicated to assisting carers. Making Space is a great resource that offers advice and support tailored to carers' needs in your area. You can reach them at 01480 211006 or by emailing PeterboroughCWS@makingspace.co.uk.

For more detailed information on Carer's Allowance and other benefits you might be eligible for, check out Caring Together's advice on money and benefits.

Remember, caring for someone can be challenging, but you're not alone. There are many resources and support systems in place in Peterborough to help you navigate these responsibilities, ensuring both you and the person you care for receive the support you need.

Exploring Financial Support for Carers in Peterborough

๐ŸŒผ Understanding Carer's Allowance Eligibility
Carer's Allowance is a payment for those who spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone with significant care needs. If you believe you might not meet the criteria for this allowance due to your earnings or other factors, there are certainly other avenues of support you can explore in Peterborough.

๐ŸŒผ Local Support Services
Firstly, Peterborough City Council offers a range of support for carers. This includes assessments to determine your needs as a carer and advice on accessing other forms of support. You can contact the council directly to inquire about these services, which are tailored to help you manage both your caring responsibilities and your own wellbeing.

๐ŸŒผ Alternative Financial Support
If Carer's Allowance isn't suitable for you, consider other financial support options such as:

  • Universal Credit: If you're on a low income or unemployed, you might be eligible for Universal Credit, which can include additional amounts for carers.
  • Council Tax Reduction: You might be eligible for a reduction on your council tax. Peterborough City Council can provide guidance on how to apply.
  • Pension Credit: If you are of pension age, Pension Credit might be an option, and being a carer could increase the amount you're eligible for.
  • Disability Benefits: Ensure that the person you care for is receiving all the disability benefits they're entitled to, such as Personal Independence Payment or Disability Living Allowance, as this can indirectly support your financial situation.

๐ŸŒผ Making Space
For tailored support and advice, Making Space in Peterborough offers specific services for carers, including financial advice and how to manage your caring responsibilities effectively. You can reach them via phone at 01480 211006 or email at PeterboroughCWS@makingspace.co.uk. They can offer personalised advice and guide you through applications for benefits and additional support.

๐ŸŒผ Additional Resources
For more detailed information on other kinds of support and benefits, visit Caring Together which provides comprehensive guidance tailored for carers.

๐ŸŒผ Applying for Carer's Allowance
Even if you think you might not be eligible, it can sometimes be worth applying for Carer's Allowance as your circumstances might allow for it. You can get step-by-step guidance and apply online here.

๐ŸŒผ Income Threshold and More Information
Remember, to be eligible for Carer's Allowance, your weekly earnings must be ยฃ151 or less after deductions. For more in-depth information about Carer's Allowance and other benefits, you can visit the Caring Together Money and Benefits page.

By exploring these options and reaching out to local services, you can find the support you need to manage your finances while fulfilling your caring responsibilities in Peterborough.

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Turn2us

Turn2us is a national charity that provides practical help to people who are struggling financially. They provide information, support and tools to help people who are in need.

Turn2us has a benefits calculator to show you what benefits you may be entitled to and a grants search which identifies any additional grants you may be eligible for.

Unbiased Financial Advisors

Unbiased is a financial advisers company that can find local financial advisers to help you with your financial needs.

They have connections with over 27,000 qualified financial advisers, mortgage brokers and accountants meaning they can put you in touch with someone local or close to you within the UK.

Carers UK Animated Video Guides

Carers UK animation series covers a wide variety of topics to help you understand what support and benefits are available to help you look after someone as well as yourself.
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Money Saving Expert

Money saving expert provide a lots of tips on a variety of money saving areas, as well as how to reduce the costs to heat your home.

Warm Spaces

Find warmth this winter. We're building an online directory of โ€˜warm banksโ€™. Spaces to find warmth, community & help.

Unbiased Financial Advisors

Unbiased is a financial advisers company that can find local financial advisers to help you with your financial needs.

They have connections with over 27,000 qualified financial advisers, mortgage brokers and accountants meaning they can put you in touch with someone local or close to you within the UK.

Trussell Trust

The Trussell Trust support a nationwide network of food banks and provide emergency food and support to people locked in poverty.

They support and encourage food banks to provide compassionate, practical support to people in crisis to tackle the root causes that lock people into poverty and build people's resilience so they are less likely to need a food bank in the future.

The Trussell Trust can locate your local food bank and will explain how to gain access to this helpful service.

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Action Fraud

Action Fraud is the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Action Fraud is run by the City of London Police working alongside the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB). They provide a central point of contact for information about fraud and financially motivated internet crime. They want to help people who have been scammed, ripped off or conned everyday.

 

Discount for Carers

Discounts for Carers is a dedicated service that connects those who work in the care sector to money-saving discounts with the biggest brands. Regardless of whether you are a carer for a friend, a family member, or if you work in the care sector professionally.

Discounts for Carers have a wide variety of discounts and exclusive offers available, from hundreds of brands. It is free to join and you can save money at the places you love with vouchers, discounts and cashback.

Turn2us

Turn2us is a national charity that provides practical help to people who are struggling financially. They provide information, support and tools to help people who are in need.

Turn2us has a benefits calculator to show you what benefits you may be entitled to and a grants search which identifies any additional grants you may be eligible for.

Money Helper

Free guidance on everyday money matters, family and care, budgeting, pensions and lots more.

Unbiased Financial Advisors

Unbiased is a financial advisers company that can find local financial advisers to help you with your financial needs.

They have connections with over 27,000 qualified financial advisers, mortgage brokers and accountants meaning they can put you in touch with someone local or close to you within the UK.

Citizens Advice Bureau

Citizens Advice provide people with free good quality, informative advice so they can have the knowledge and confidence to move forward in their situation. They believe that no one should have to face their problems alone, whoever you are and whatever your problem.

No one else sees so many people with so many different kinds of problems, and that gives Citizens Advice a unique insight into the challenges people are facing today.

Step Change

If you need free advice on problem debt, you can call StepChange. Their team of debt experts can help you find the solutions you need.

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Care Circle

Once a month it's useful to reflect on how you're doing in different areas.

Just select an area of the care circle to update how you're getting on.

Ask Bridgit on WhatsApp ๐Ÿ“ฑ is your go-to for caregiving advice, accessible anytime, anywhere. ๐ŸŒ

Although it's a not a real person, Bridgit is equipped with the knowledge to support you. ๐Ÿ“š


๐Ÿค” Not sure what help you need? Just choose a structured conversation by choosing a topic below.
We'll ask you a few questions, and based on your responses, you'll receive tailored support, including valuable info and personalised PDF plans, directly through WhatsApp. ๐Ÿ’ผ

Available conversations

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Are you looking for help in your caring role?

In a short conversation we'll learn a bit about you and the person you're caring for and then create a simple plan with:

๐Ÿ“ Insights into managing the specific condition of the person you're caring for.
๐Ÿค Guidance on accessing and using these services effectively.
๐ŸŒ Links to online resources and communities for carers.

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Looking for Wellbeing Support?

In our quick chat, we'll discuss your current engagement in physical activities, stress management practices, and hobbies that uplift you. We'll create a plan featuring:

๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ Suggestions for physical activities suited to your lifestyle.
๐Ÿง˜โ€โ™€๏ธ Tips on mindfulness and meditation, tailored to how often you can practice.
๐ŸŽจ Ideas for hobbies and activities that can boost your mood and well-being.

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Thinking About Getting Back to Work?

Let's have a quick chat to understand your current situation and your aspirations for returning to work. We'll create a concise plan that includes:

๐Ÿ“ˆ Advice on balancing caregiving responsibilities with work.
๐ŸŒ Information on flexible working options and support for carers in the workplace.
๐Ÿ“ Tips on updating your CV and preparing for interviews.

Start conversation
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Balancing Work and Care Responsibilities?

In our brief discussion, we'll explore how you can effectively manage both your professional life and caregiving duties. Your personalized plan will include:

โš–๏ธ Strategies for achieving a work-care balance.
๐Ÿ“… Tips on time management and setting priorities.
๐Ÿค Information on workplace rights and support for carers.

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Navigating Financial Support & Benefits for Carers?

Join us for a brief chat to delve into the financial aspects of caregiving. We'll help you create a plan encompassing:

๐Ÿ’ฐ Detailed information on benefits and financial support options specifically for carers.
๐Ÿ“ Step-by-step guidance on applying for these benefits.
๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Tools and resources to help manage your finances effectively as a carer.

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Considering Taking Time Out as a Carer?

In our short conversation, we'll discuss your need for a break from caregiving. We'll then formulate a plan that includes:

๐Ÿ–๏ธ Tips on how to plan for time off and respite care options.
๐Ÿ”„ Strategies for ensuring continuity of care during your absence.
๐Ÿง˜โ€โ™€๏ธ Suggestions for relaxation and rejuvenation activities.

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Select from below to add conditions


Parkinson's disease is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged overย many years.

Symptoms of Parkinson's disease

The main symptoms of Parkinson's disease are:

  • involuntary shaking of particular parts of the bodyย (tremor)
  • slow movement
  • stiff and inflexible muscles

A person with Parkinson's disease can also experience a wide range of other physical and psychological symptoms.

These include:

Seeking medical advice

See a GP if you're concerned that you may have symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

They'll ask about the problems you're experiencing and mayย refer you to a specialist for further tests.

Find out more about diagnosing Parkinson's disease


Causes of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease is caused by a loss of nerve cells in part of the brain called the substantia nigra. Thisย leads to a reductionย in a chemical called dopamine in the brain.

Dopamine plays a vital role in regulating the movement of the body. A reduction in dopamine is responsible for many of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Exactly what causes the loss of nerve cells is unclear. Most experts think that a combination of genetic and environmental factors is responsible.

Who's affected

Most people with Parkinson's start to develop symptoms when they're over 50, although some people with the condition first experience symptomsย when they're under 40.

Men are slightly more likely to get Parkinson's disease than women.


Treatingย Parkinson's disease

Although there's currently no cure for Parkinson's disease, treatments are available to help reduce the main symptoms and maintain quality of life for as long as possible.

These include:

You may not need any treatment during the early stages of Parkinson's disease, as symptoms are usually mild.

But you may need regular appointments with your specialist so your condition can be monitored.

Outlook

As the condition progresses,ย the symptoms of Parkinson's diseaseย can get worse and it can become increasingly difficult to carry out everyday activities without help.

Manyย people respond well to treatment and only experience mild to moderate disability, whereas the minority may not respond as well and can, in time, becomeย more severely disabled.

Parkinson's diseaseย does not directly cause people to die, but the condition can place great strain on the body, and can make some people more vulnerable to serious and life-threatening infections.

But with advances in treatment, most people with Parkinson's disease now have a normal or near-normal life expectancy.

Find out more about living with Parkinson's disease

It may alsoย be useful to read information and advice on:ย 

Parkinson's UK

Parkinson's UK is the main Parkinson's support and research charity in the UK.

They can help if you're living with the disease and let you know about support groups in the area.

Find out more about support groups in your local area from the Parkinson's UK website.

You can contact them by:

  • calling their free helpline on 0808 800 0303 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm, and 10am to 2pm on Saturdays)
  • emailing hello@parkinsons.org.uk

You can also talk to others about your experiences of Parkinson's on the community forum on the Parkinson's UK website.

Social care and support guide

If you:

  • need help with day-to-day living because of illness or disability
  • care for someone regularly because they're ill, elderly or disabled, including family members

Our guide to care and support explains your options and where you can get support.

You can also read more about working and supporting someoneโ€™s health or care on GOV.UK.


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Frequently asked questions

Our support tool captures data from you in order to create your personal support plan.

Through this tool we capture information such as the areas you'd like support with, medications and conditions you'd like advice with, and your location so we can find local events and services close to you.

By using our tool you are consenting for Bridgit Care (Part of Upstream Outcomes Ltd) to process your information in order to receive your personalised support plan.

Bridgit Care is an online platform designed to support unpaid carers by providing information and tools tailored to your needs, exactly when you need them.
Whether you're looking for advice, local resources, or practical guidance, our platform is here to complement - not replace - the in-person services available in your area.
Our goal is to help you navigate your caring role more easily by connecting you to the right information and support at the right time.

If you would like more information, please contact contact@bridgit.care

This tool is designed to help anyone that has somebody that relies on them. Whether that's a friend, neighbour or family member.

You may not identify as a 'carer' and that's fine. This tool is just here to help you navigate all the advice and guidance that's out there on the internet and connect you to the support you need in your local area.

You can access your report in seconds and start getting support straightaway.

We've built this tool to allow you to add content over time, track progress on how you're doing and also make sure you get targeted information to help.

This hopefully will help you spend less time searching for the support you need, and help free up your time.

Your report contains advice, support and guidance from trusted sources from around the UK. From organisations like the NHS, Age UK and Carers UK. The report is split into sections.

In the 'Support' area we provide you with local events, advice, support and services and ideas to try. You can add to this plan over time and share the areas you're struggling with (called 'Challenges') so that we can make sure the advice we provide is based on your needs.

In the 'Dashboard' you can update how you're doing in the different areas of your caring role and overall life, and track this over time. If supported in your area it also allows you to book in for a personal care coach call with our team, or have a live chat on any areas we can help.

In the 'Health' section you can add conditions or medications that you'd like to keep track off and see advice from the NHS on each area. You can use this to also track the medications and conditions of the person you're caring for.

In the 'Downloads' section we've produced some easy to read and accessible packs for you that you can download and use. Containing advice, templated and things to try. You can even print it out if you find it useful.

In the report you can sign up for regular email supports. You'll receive emails with support on the specific areas you've asked for help with as well as a monthly personalised list of upcoming events that you might like to go to.

If supported in your area you'll see options to book a chat, video or phone call with our team to talk about any areas you'd like support on. We're hear to listen and support you in any way we can.

Family carers around the UK already do so much to support the people they care for which in turn helps to keep our health and social care system running.

As a Social Enterprise Bridgit Care is committed to supporting the family carer community and receive funding for these service from government organisations and grants.

When you reach your report page you'll have the option to provide your email address. If you decide to provide it and submit your address to us, then you'll receive regular support emails from the Bridgit Care team with things like upcoming events, new caring advice or services At anytime if you decide you no longer want to receive support emails you can just click 'Unsubscribe' on any of the support mails.

You can also review our Privacy Policy for further information and please contact us if you have any questions or concerns please on our email contact@bridgit.care.

Within the Privacy Policy you will see specific information that relates to this Online Support tool, including details of the information we capture and how we use this information.

All the information you provide to us is encrypted and stored securely in either or Amazon AWS or Microsoft Azure environments.

We provide you with a share link for your report to send to others. This link is view only so that others can view the content but not make any edits.

This tool is completely safe to use and completely free.

The tool is being provided to you by either your local authority or NHS Trust, depending upon where you live.

All policies and Terms/Conditions are available at the bottom of the tools report for you to read so you can see how your data is protected.

We are sorry to hear you couldn't find the right help.

Our support tool is constantly updating, If there is something that you needed help with and you couldn't find it we would like to hear from you. That way, we can update the tool to help you and other carers.

You can either leave us some feedback (at the top of the tool) or send us an email at contact@bridgit.care

In the meantime, if supported within your region, and you need additional support please book a carer coach session with the Bridgit Care Team to talk through any areas you need help with

Yes, we are here to help. You can either:

  • Contact your local carers centre (This can be found in the Local section within the 'Carer Support' group)
  • Book a call with a Bridgit Carer Coach for some advice (if supported in your region)