Carers

Do you look after someone who is ill, frail, disabled or mentally ill?

We are interested in identifying carers, especially those who may be caring without help or support. Carers are often “hidden”, looking after a family member or helping a friend or neighbour with day-to-day tasks and may not identify themselves as a carer.

Anyone could be a carer

Caring for someone is an important and valuable role, which is often a 24 hour job that can be very demanding and isolating.

As a carer, you are entitled to have your needs assessed by Adult Care Services. A carer’s assessment is a chance to talk about your needs and ways you could receive help.

It also looks at the needs of the person you care for.

There is no charge for this assessment

If you think this could apply to you or someone you know, please ask at reception for a carer’s identification and referral form.

All carers have the right to a Carers Assessment

You can access this either through Social Care Connect by calling 03456037630 or if the cared for person is already allocated a social worker or support worker at ECC then the Carer can request one through them directly.

The most regular outcomes are:

Direct payments for sitting services to allow the Carer regular breaks
Yearly respite breaks to allow the Carer a holiday (although this is a chargeable service subject to financial assessment)
Telecare or equipment provision e.g. Carer pager alert systems, bed/chair occupancy sensors etc

If the Carer expresses they are finding something difficult then the social care team will work with them to try and find a solution.

'Carers First Essex' are an organisation that provides support and advice to carers and can also provide access to workshops, benefits, and help a Carer access and prepare for a Carers Assessment.

Carers can self- refer by calling 03003031555 or there is an online referral form on the website. www.carersfirst.org.uk/essex