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Understanding Your Role as a Family Carer
👨👩👧👦 Being a carer involves providing support to the person you care for who may be facing difficulties due to illness, disability, mental health issues, or age-related concerns. Your role can vary widely but often includes helping with daily tasks, managing medications, attending medical appointments, and offering emotional support.
Types of Unpaid Family Carers
🧓👶 Family carers come in all forms and may include caring for children, adults, or elderly family members. Some carers look after those with specific conditions such as dementia, physical disabilities, or chronic illnesses. Understanding the specific needs of the person you are caring for can help you in your role.
The Typical Caring Role
🏠 Daily tasks can range widely but typically include:
- Personal care such as bathing and dressing.
- Household tasks like cooking and cleaning.
- Managing finances and handling paperwork.
- Providing companionship and emotional support.
Support Available to Carers
🤲 It’s important to know that as a carer, you're not alone. Support is available to help you manage both the emotional and practical aspects of caring:
- Respite Care: This service provides you with a break by arranging for others to take over the caring role temporarily.
- Carer’s Assessment: Offered by Peterborough City Council, this evaluates your needs as a carer and what support might be beneficial for you.
Local Services in Peterborough
🌍 In Peterborough, several services are specifically tailored to support carers like you:
- Making Space: They offer a variety of support services to carers, including advice, emotional support, and practical help. You can contact them at 01480 211006 or email PeterboroughCWS@makingspace.co.uk. Visit their website at Making Space.
- Peterborough Carer’s Support Service: They provide comprehensive support tailored to the needs of carers in the local area.
To find out more about support for carers they can visit the Peterborough Council website at: Peterborough Council Carer Support
Financial and Legal Advice
💷 You may also need guidance on managing financial aspects or legal matters:
- Benefits Advice: You might be eligible for Carer's Allowance or other benefits which can provide financial support.
- Legal Advice: Handling legal matters such as Power of Attorney or care decisions can often require professional advice.
Support Groups and Communities
🤝 Participating in support groups can provide emotional relief and practical tips from others who are in similar situations. These groups offer a platform to share experiences and advice, reducing feelings of isolation.
Health and Wellbeing
🧘♀️ Remember, your wellbeing is as important as the care you provide. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, and taking time out for yourself are crucial to sustain your health and energy levels.
Conclusion
🌟 Being a carer is a significant role filled with challenges and rewards. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Utilise the local resources available in Peterborough to support you and ensure you also take care of your wellbeing. For more information and tailored support, make sure to explore the resources provided by Peterborough City Council and Making Space.
This guide aims to help you navigate your caring responsibilities with confidence, knowing where and how you can access the support you need.
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
Veterans’ Gateway – 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.Click below to play animation
Carers Allowance Universal Credit Personal Independent Payments Disability Living Allowance Carers Assesments Attendance AllowanceSelect from below to receive advice.
Veterans Gateway
Veterans’ Gateway – 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.Click below to play animation
Carers Allowance Universal Credit Personal Independent Payments Disability Living Allowance Carers Assesments Attendance AllowanceSelect from below to receive advice.
📘 Understanding Carer's Allowance and Eligibility in Peterborough
🌟 What is Carer's Allowance?
Carer's Allowance is a payment designed to help individuals who spend a significant portion of their week providing care to someone with substantial care needs due to illness or disability. In the UK, including Peterborough, this payment aims to offer financial support to carers who might otherwise face financial challenges due to their caring responsibilities.
🌟 Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for Carer's Allowance, you must satisfy the following conditions:
- Care Hours: You must care for someone for at least 35 hours a week.
- Income Limit: Your weekly earnings must be £151 or less after deductions, such as taxes and National Insurance contributions.
- Care Recipient's Benefits: The person you care for must be receiving a qualifying disability benefit. This can include benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
- Additional Requirements: You must be aged 16 or over, not in full-time education, and meet specific UK residence and immigration conditions.
🌟 How to Apply:
You can apply for Carer's Allowance online, which is generally the quickest method. To apply, visit the GOV.UK Carer's Allowance application page. Alternatively, you can apply by post using form DS700, or DS700(SP) if you are receiving the State Pension.
🌟 Local Support in Peterborough:
Peterborough City Council can offer guidance and additional local resources for carers. It's beneficial to get in touch with them for tailored advice and support. You can contact them directly at Peterborough City Council.
🌟 Further Assistance:
For comprehensive support and advice, Caring Together Charity is an excellent resource for carers in Peterborough. They provide detailed information on benefits, including Carer's Allowance, and can help you navigate through your application process or any other queries you might have. You can reach them at Caring Together, call 0345 241 0954, or email hello@caringtogether.org.
🌟 Income Threshold Reminder:
It’s important to remember that there is an income threshold for Carer's Allowance, which is set at £151 per week (after deductions). Earning above this amount could affect your eligibility for the payment.
🌟 Additional Resources:
Should you need further assistance or have specific questions, resources like the downloadable factsheet and video guide on the GOV.UK website can be very helpful. Also, consider reaching out to Carers UK, which offers a helpline and detailed resources for carers.
By understanding these key points about Carer's Allowance and utilising local resources in Peterborough, you can better navigate the process and determine your eligibility for this vital support.
Exploring Financial Support Beyond Carer's Allowance in Peterborough
🌍 Understanding Carer's Allowance Eligibility
Before diving into alternative supports, it's crucial to re-evaluate the eligibility criteria for Carer's Allowance. Remember, you need to care for someone at least 35 hours a week, earn £151 or less per week after certain deductions, and the person you care for must receive a qualifying disability benefit. If you're close to these thresholds but not entirely sure, it might be worth applying as circumstances can be reviewed in detail during the application process. More information on eligibility and how to apply can be found here.
🌈 Local Support Services in Peterborough
If Carer's Allowance isn't an option for you, Peterborough City Council offers various supports that might help. They can provide you with advice on local benefits and services that you might not be aware of. It’s a good idea to get in touch with them for tailored advice:
- Contact Details: Peterborough City Council - Adult Social Care
📞 Carers Trust Peterborough
Additionally, the Carers Trust Peterborough provides dedicated support and might offer financial advice or emergency grants for carers in distress:
- Website: Carers Trust Peterborough
- Phone: 01733 645234
🌟 Additional Financial Supports
Even if you're not eligible for Carer's Allowance, you might qualify for other payments or reductions, such as:
- Council Tax Reduction: You might be able to get a discount on your council tax if you're on a low income or claim certain benefits.
- Universal Credit: Depending on your circumstances, including income and savings, you might be eligible for Universal Credit which can include additional amounts for carers.
- Discretionary Assistance: Peterborough City Council might offer discretionary assistance for carers facing financial hardship.
📄 Financial and Legal Advice
For detailed financial planning and legal advice, consider contacting local services like:
- Citizens Advice Peterborough: They offer free advice that can help you understand the full range of benefits and entitlements you might be eligible for.
- Website: Citizens Advice Peterborough
- Phone: 0344 499 4120
💡 Income Threshold and More Information
Remember, there's an income threshold of £151 per week for Carer's Allowance after deductions. For more detailed advice on carer payments and benefits, you can visit the Caring Together site.
📘 Looking Beyond
If you have checked all these avenues and still find yourself needing support, it may be beneficial to connect with local community groups or charities in Peterborough. They often have resources or can direct you to others who may help specifically in our community.
By exploring these various channels, you should be able to find the support you need to manage your financial situation while you continue to provide invaluable care. Remember, you're not alone, and there are services out there designed to support carers like you.
Understanding Carer's Allowance and Care Hours
🕒 Calculating Your Care Hours
To be eligible for Carer's Allowance, you must provide care for at least 35 hours a week. This includes any time spent on:
- Preparing meals
- Managing medication
- Assisting with personal care
- Attending medical appointments
- Managing household tasks due to the needs of the person you care for
It's important to note that the hours can be at any time of the day or night and do not need to be consecutive.
📝 Keeping a Care Diary
To ensure you meet the 35-hour requirement, it might be helpful to keep a diary of the care you provide. Record the activities and the time spent on each task. This record can be useful if you need to demonstrate the care you provide, either for your application or in case of any queries about your eligibility.
🌍 Local Support in Peterborough
In Peterborough, you can get additional support and advice on tracking and proving your care hours through local organisations. Peterborough City Council can provide guidance on local services that can help you manage your caring responsibilities. You can contact them directly for more personalised advice:
- Peterborough City Council Adult Social Care: 01733 747474 (choose option for Adult Social Care)
- Email: adultsocialcare@peterborough.gov.uk
🔗 Applying for Carer's Allowance
Remember, you can apply for Carer's Allowance if you meet the criteria, including the care hours. For detailed guidance on how to apply and what information you will need, visit the official government site to start your application: How to claim Carer's Allowance
📊 Financial Thresholds
Do keep in mind the income threshold; your weekly earnings must be £151 or less after deductions. This ensures you meet the financial criteria for receiving Carer's Allowance.
For more detailed advice on Carer's Allowance and other benefits that may support you financially, visit Caring Together for advice on money and benefits.
💬 Additional Help
For any further questions or if you need support with your application, you can reach out to Caring Together Charity. They offer tailored advice and can assist with any concerns you might have:
- Phone: 0345 241 0954
- Email: hello@caringtogether.org
Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Local and online resources are here to support you in your role as a carer in Peterborough.
Exploring Financial Support Beyond Carer's Allowance in Peterborough
🌍 Understanding Carer's Allowance Eligibility
Before diving into alternative supports, it's crucial to re-evaluate the eligibility criteria for Carer's Allowance. Remember, you need to care for someone at least 35 hours a week, earn £151 or less per week after certain deductions, and the person you care for must receive a qualifying disability benefit. If you're close to these thresholds but not entirely sure, it might be worth applying as circumstances can be reviewed in detail during the application process. More information on eligibility and how to apply can be found here.
🌈 Local Support Services in Peterborough
If Carer's Allowance isn't an option for you, Peterborough City Council offers various supports that might help. They can provide you with advice on local benefits and services that you might not be aware of. It’s a good idea to get in touch with them for tailored advice:
- Contact Details: Peterborough City Council - Adult Social Care
📞 Carers Trust Peterborough
Additionally, the Carers Trust Peterborough provides dedicated support and might offer financial advice or emergency grants for carers in distress:
- Website: Carers Trust Peterborough
- Phone: 01733 645234
🌟 Additional Financial Supports
Even if you're not eligible for Carer's Allowance, you might qualify for other payments or reductions, such as:
- Council Tax Reduction: You might be able to get a discount on your council tax if you're on a low income or claim certain benefits.
- Universal Credit: Depending on your circumstances, including income and savings, you might be eligible for Universal Credit which can include additional amounts for carers.
- Discretionary Assistance: Peterborough City Council might offer discretionary assistance for carers facing financial hardship.
📄 Financial and Legal Advice
For detailed financial planning and legal advice, consider contacting local services like:
- Citizens Advice Peterborough: They offer free advice that can help you understand the full range of benefits and entitlements you might be eligible for.
- Website: Citizens Advice Peterborough
- Phone: 0344 499 4120
💡 Income Threshold and More Information
Remember, there's an income threshold of £151 per week for Carer's Allowance after deductions. For more detailed advice on carer payments and benefits, you can visit the Caring Together site.
📘 Looking Beyond
If you have checked all these avenues and still find yourself needing support, it may be beneficial to connect with local community groups or charities in Peterborough. They often have resources or can direct you to others who may help specifically in our community.
By exploring these various channels, you should be able to find the support you need to manage your financial situation while you continue to provide invaluable care. Remember, you're not alone, and there are services out there designed to support carers like you.
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.Click below to play animation
Carers Allowance Universal Credit Personal Independent Payments Disability Living Allowance Carers Assesments Attendance AllowanceSelect from below to receive advice.
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 ‘warm banks’. 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.
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.Click below to play animation
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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.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.Click below to play animation
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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 📱 is your go-to for caregiving advice, accessible anytime, anywhere. 🌍
Although it's a not a real person, Bridgit is equipped with the knowledge to support you. 📚
🤔 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. 💼
Available conversations
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:
📝 Insights into managing the specific condition of the person you're caring for.
🤝 Guidance on accessing and using these services effectively.
🌍 Links to online resources and communities for carers.
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:
🏃♂️ Suggestions for physical activities suited to your lifestyle.
🧘♀️ Tips on mindfulness and meditation, tailored to how often you can practice.
🎨 Ideas for hobbies and activities that can boost your mood and well-being.
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:
📈 Advice on balancing caregiving responsibilities with work.
🌐 Information on flexible working options and support for carers in the workplace.
📝 Tips on updating your CV and preparing for interviews.
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:
⚖️ Strategies for achieving a work-care balance.
📅 Tips on time management and setting priorities.
🤝 Information on workplace rights and support for carers.
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:
💰 Detailed information on benefits and financial support options specifically for carers.
📝 Step-by-step guidance on applying for these benefits.
🛠️ Tools and resources to help manage your finances effectively as a carer.
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:
🏖️ Tips on how to plan for time off and respite care options.
🔄 Strategies for ensuring continuity of care during your absence.
🧘♀️ Suggestions for relaxation and rejuvenation activities.
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