Who is a Carer?

Carers are people looking after relatives or friends who, because of disability, long-term illness or the effects of old age, cannot manage at home without help. The life of the carer is restricted by the need to take responsibility for the person for whom he or she is caring. Depending on how much help the person needs and how much support the carer receives, caring can lead to social isolation, financial hardship and a deterioration in mental and physical health of the carer.

Because caring is not exclusive to either sex or any age, social class, income or racial group, there is no typical carer. Carers are ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances. They simply get on with what has to be done when someone close to them either gradually or suddenly begins to need looking after. They take on a job that is tiring and often stressful, sometimes lasting for years on end, with no training and mostly with no idea of what services are or should be available.

Carers often do not think of themselves as being carers, but as a parent, son, daughter, partner or friend of the person they are caring for.

It is important for carers to consider their own feelings. They sometimes feel they need the patience and tolerance of a saint. They may run out of energy and just want to sit down and relax but can’t because of the many things that have to be done that cannot wait and demand their urgent attention.

Sometimes looking after somebody makes people feel frustrated, angry, tired or lonely. They sometimes feel guilty about the way they feel. A little help and support would make all the difference but a sense of pride and responsibility prevents them from asking for assistance and time off for themselves.

Contact your local Carers Development Worker and find out what help and support is available for carers in the Melton Borough:

Carers Development Worker
01664 485304