Carer’s Week is here, and this year’s theme is about making care visible and valued. It’s also the perfect time to think about your own health and wellbeing.
Not sure where to start? You’re not alone, many carers put their own needs last. Here’s a handy tip on how to build a picture of your needs – make a 3-way list of the everyday things you do:
• how you help your loved one, like personal care or making meals
• what things you need support with, such as shopping or managing money
• what you wish you had more time for, like hobbies or cooking.
You can then use your list to manage your time and figure out what you could ask for help with - maybe a friend could help with shopping once a week, or give you a lift.
For some of us, it’s about finding time to relax or go to an exercise class. For others, it’s spending time with friends and family. You may feel there’s not enough hours in the day - try to do what you can, when you can.
What is Carers Week?
Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. This year it is from 7-13 June. It also helps people who don't think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.
This year we are coming together to Make Caring Visible and Valued.
The campaign is brought to life by thousands of individuals and organisations who come together to provide support for carers, run activities, highlight the vital role carers play in our communities and draw attention to just how important caring is.
For details including activities for Carers - see carersweek.org****.
If you’d like to talk to someone about your needs, the charity Marie Curie offers free telephone support and can give guidance on caring. You can even sign up for “check in and chat” to get ongoing support from a friendly volunteer. Call 0800 090 2309* or visit mariecurie.org.uk/support to find out more.
* Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones. Your call may be recorded for quality and training purposes.