Caring for carers

If someone close to you is experiencing long-term health problems such as ankylosing spondylitis, you may find yourself taking on a number of caring responsibilities.

According to Carers UK, there are about six million people providing care around the UK at the moment. That equates to one in eight adults, many of whom are ordinary people like you. Some have no choice, as they can't afford to pay someone else to provide the care, while many others feel that it is important to look after their loved one or friend.

If you are caring for someone, you will be glad to know that the Government has committed itself to providing support for people like you. Not only should you be able to get support from the NHS (depending on the condition of the person you are caring for), but you may also be able to claim a special carer's allowance.

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 £100 a week (2010 - 2011 rate), then you may be able to claim Carer's Allowance (CA), a special social security benefit for full-time carers. In order to claim you must be over the age of 16 and not in full time education.

To find out if you qualify, contact the CA Unit on 0845 608 4321 between 8.30am and 5pm Monday to Thursday and between 8.30am 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.

Coping with difficulties

Caring for someone with a chronic health condition is never easy and there may be times when it's especially tough. Here's some advice which may help:

If you are feeling stressed, weepy or exhausted, it's a good idea to take a break to recharge your batteries. If the person you are caring for is seriously ill and needs ongoing care - and there's no one else who can take over your responsibilities for a few hours or a few days - your local Social Services may be able to help. If you are depressed or suffering from insomnia, it is worth contacting your doctor.

If you're chatting to someone don't feel guilty if you find yourself moaning about your situation. It's really important to express your feelings and not bottle them up. Sharing your frustrations with someone may make you feel better. You may find it helpful to become a member of a charity or patient organisation that specialises in the condition your loved one or friend has been diagnosed with.

If there's a time of day you know you feel low, try to give yourself a treat. Making a special time to sit down to watch your favourite soap with a cup of tea or doing something else just for you, can make a surprising difference.

If you have a medical emergency, it is good to have any relevant information and paperwork somewhere you can access easily in a rush. It's also a good idea to keep a list of emergency numbers next to your phone, just in case.

If the person you're caring for becomes depressed, emotionally distressed or suicidal, they may need urgent attention. Get them to see their GP as soon as you can. And remember, you or the person you're caring for can always talk to someone 24 hours a day by calling Samaritans on 08457 909090. Alternatively, there are charities and organisations that enable people with specific conditions to get together and support each other. Ask at your GP surgery for details of these.

If you become ill and are unable to provide essential care, then your local Social Services should be able to provide a number of helpful services, such as day centres, respite care, home help and meals-on-wheels. These may only be available to people who are seriously ill and cannot care for themselves.

See support groups and charities for details of the National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society.

See Carers UK - the organisation led by carers for carers - for more information.

Health tips