Practical help

If you are caring for someone with health problems, you'll be glad to know that you can get some practical and financial support to help you to continue to provide the best possible care.

Practical support
The NHS and Social Services can provide a number of services to make your life a little easier.

For example, district nurses are available to help do things like change dressings and give injections. If required, it is also possible to arrange home visits from physiotherapists, podiatrists and other healthcare providers.

If you require equipment, such as a wheelchair or walking frame, the occupational therapy department of your local Social Services office can sometimes lend items out and help you to adapt your home.

Social Services can also arrange respite care, if you need a break – or have to go away. Ask at your GP surgery to find how you can get referred to Social Services providers in your area.

Financial support
If you spend 35 hours or more each week providing care to a seriously ill or disabled person and are not earning more than £87 a week (correct as of October 2007), then you may be able to claim Carer's Allowance (CA), a special social security benefit for full-time carers.

To find out if you qualify, contact the CA Unit on 01253 856123 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Thursday and between 9am and 4.30pm on Fridays. If your first language is not English ask for information about the interpreter service. Alternatively email cau.customer-services@dwp.gsi.gov.uk or apply online via the website at Caring for someone

Learn how to cope with difficult caring situations.