Content originally from Carers First
As summer draws to a close, don’t forget to get the latest issue of our magazine, Putting Carers First. Our magazine has been designed with carers, for carers, and covers a range of topics such as the Carer’s Leave Act and what it means for you, Hospital from Home support and how to enjoy summer on a budget.
We want you to feel seen and heard, which is why we have included feedback from carers who featured in Kate Garraway’s ‘Derek’s Story’ documentary and their thoughts on what this documentary means for carers. You will also find Jacqueline’s story on finding time for herself through creative Carers First events and groups.
Click the link to download your copy now.
Help and Advice
Managing Stress and Anxiety
Recognising the signs of stress is important for carers. Carers First has created a special website page to help carers manage stress and anxiety.
Caring for someone is more than just a responsibility; it’s a way of life that can make it hard to separate personal time from the role of a carer. It demands constant attention, deep empathy, and significant physical effort, which can take a toll over time. Recognising signs of stress and managing them is essential for maintaining your health and providing the best care. Explore our resources to support you in your caring journey.
Caring for someone with a mental health condition
Supporting someone with a mental health issue involves a constantly changing and important form of care. It’s not a role that stays the same from one day to the next.
Often, carers underestimate their role, which can stop them from getting the support they need. Carers First provides advice and guidance to help you through this role, recognising the complexities you face along the way.
Carer’s Voice
| Dane: Finding Hope |
| As a carer, accessing appropriate support can make a world of difference. Finding Carers First has helped 61 year old Dane, a full-time carer for a family member struggling with mental health issues, to turn a corner. For over 25 years, Dane has experienced tough times while supporting her family member navigate ongoing mental health challenges.Dane eventually opened up to a friend about the difficulties she was facing and her lack of support. Her friend introduced her to Carers First so that Dane could get the help she needed“Sometimes you need a friend to talk to. They told me about how Carers First could support me, help me find time for myself, and point me in the right direction to get all the support I needed” says Dane. Click the link to read Dane’s story. |
Volunteering for Carers First
Carers First wouldn’t be the charity it is without our amazing volunteers. The dedication and effort of volunteers enrich our services, making a world of difference to the carers we support.
Volunteers are at the heart of Carers First and we’re so grateful for their continuous contribution.
Volunteers, Rahul and Damien shared how volunteering has shifted their perspective and
provided a sense of fulfilment through giving back.Volunteering can be a positive and rewarding experience, whether you want to connect with your community, learn new skills, find a job, or support carers.“It has changed my perspective on life, caring, resilience and the power of organised community support. Rahul says.Click the link below to read Rahul and Damien’s story and find out how to volunteer with Carers First. Our volunteer team provide training and ongoing support.
Carers First Day Out Directory
This summer many carers have reduced the number of outings due to the increasing cost of living.
Carers First website, provides a directory listing zoos, country parks, theme parks, and other attractions that provide free or discounted entry for carers and their families.
The directory also includes details on how to redeem the offer, making it simpler for you to have a day out with your loved ones without being concerned about the cost.
Click here to find out more on how you can save on a day out.
Carers First is a lifeline for carers
Now, more than ever, our Carer Support Advisers and frontline staff are needed to provide practical information, advice and guidance to carers. They do this online, in their homes and in the community – wherever carers are. Alongside this, volunteer-led services such as Telephone Befriending help carers feel less alone and more supported in their caring role.
Carers First is a charity and we need donations to ensure our work with carers can continue in these most demanding of times.
If you can, please help us to support other carers like you. Thank you.
Join our Facebook Community
This community group is for carers to interact with one another, sharing advice, stories and offering support to each other.
SWF Health & Social Care Group 