Becoming an unpaid carer for a loved one can be a significant life change. You might be feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to turn for support, or simply not know what to expect. This guide is designed to help new unpaid carers in Luton navigate these initial steps and access the resources available to you, particularly through Carers Central, our dedicated service that exists to support you in your caring journey.
Understanding Your Role as a Carer
An unpaid carer is someone who provides support to a family member, friend, or neighbour who cannot manage everyday tasks on their own due to illness, disability, mental health condition, or frailty. This support can encompass a wide range of tasks, including:
- Personal care (washing, dressing, eating)
- Household tasks (cooking, cleaning, shopping)
- Managing finances and appointments
- Providing emotional support and companionship
First Steps to Take
Identify Yourself as a Carer: It’s crucial to recognise and accept your role as a carer. This will open doors to vital support and resources.
Assess the Care Needs: Understand the specific needs of the person you’re caring for. This will help you determine the type and level of support required. Consider:
- Physical needs
- Emotional and mental health needs
- Practical needs (e.g., help with finances, transport)
Register with Your GP: Inform your GP that you are a carer. This is important for your own health and well-being, as well as for the person you care for. Your GP can offer advice, support, and referrals to other services.
Contact Luton Council Carers Support: Luton Council offers a range of support services for carers. Contacting them is a key step. They can provide:
- Information and advice
- Carer’s assessments (to identify your needs as a carer)
- Financial assessments (to check eligibility for financial support)
- Access to respite care
- Support groups and training
Reach out to our team here at Carers Central, a dedicated service within our charity, The Disability Resource Centre. Carers Central offers a wealth of resources specifically tailored to the needs of unpaid carers in Luton. Here’s what we can do for you:
- Website: Carers Central runs this dedicated website, allowing access to social and welfare advice. There are emergency numbers listed on the website with access to self-help information and links to specialist support
- Helpline: A trained team of staff (Levi and Sally) and volunteers are available from 9am to 5pm every weekday. You can call them at 0300 303 0201 for support and guidance
- Face-to-face appointments: If you prefer in-person assistance, Carers Central offers support via appointments.
- Referral: You can be referred to Carers Central by a professional.
- Activities: Carers Central provides various activities in the community to support unpaid carers, including coffee mornings, carer events, and community engagement. Check their website regularly for upcoming activities.
- Training: Carers Central can support you with finding a variety of training opportunities, including free workshops, mini-courses, and coaching programs. They can even assist with enrolment.
- Peer support: Connect with other carers in Luton through support groups facilitated by Carers Central. Support groups offer a safe space to share experiences, find understanding, and build connections.
- Employment support: Balancing caring responsibilities with work can be challenging. Carers Central can connect you with a free support program to help you manage your well-being, learn new skills, and explore employment opportunities.
- Disability equipment: Carers Central can guide you on how to obtain disability equipment through local authorities or trusted assessors.
- Contact: Carers Central has a dedicated phone line, just call 0300 303 0201 and an email address: carerscentral@drcbeds.org.uk. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for help.
Connect with Carers UK: Carers UK is a national charity offering invaluable information, advice, and support to carers. Their website is a great resource. They also have a helpline.
Explore the NHS Website: The NHS website has a dedicated section for carers, with information on a variety of topics.
Key support sreas for new carers:
- Carer’s Assessment: This assessment, carried out by Luton Council (and Carers Central can help you navigate this process), looks at your needs as a carer and helps determine what support you are entitled to.
- Financial Support: You may be eligible for benefits such as Carer’s Allowance or other forms of financial assistance. Carers Central can provide information and guidance on financial support options.
- Respite Care: Taking breaks is essential for your well-being. Carers Central can help you access information and support regarding respite care options available in Luton.
- Emotional Support: Caring can be emotionally challenging. Carers Central offers peer support groups, a helpline, and can connect you with other emotional support services.
Looking after yourself
Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritising your own well-being is essential:
- Take regular breaks: Even short breaks can make a big difference. Carers Central can help you explore respite options to facilitate these breaks.
- Stay connected with friends and family: Maintain your social connections. Carers Central’s community activities and support groups can offer opportunities for social interaction.
- Eat healthily and exercise regularly: Look after your physical health.
- Seek help when you need it: Don’t be afraid to ask for support. Carers Central is there to help you.
How Carers Central can specifically help you:
Carers Central is more than just a website or helpline; it’s a community of support for carers in Luton. Here’s a summary of how they can assist you:
- Information and advice: Whether you have questions about benefits, assessments, or local services, Carers Central can provide clear and accurate information
- Emotional Support: Connect with other carers through support groups, share your experiences, and find understanding
- Practical support: Access training opportunities to develop your skills and confidence in your caring role. Get help with finding disability equipment or explore employment support options
- Community and connection: Participate in social activities and events to connect with other carers and build a support network
Useful contacts:
- Carers Central:
- Website: www.carerscentral.org.uk
- Helpline: 0300 303 0201 (9am to 5pm weekdays)
- Email: carerscentral@drcbeds.org.uk
- Luton Council Carers Support: 01582 555111 or carer.support@luton.gov.uk (Check the ‘I am a carer’ page for easy access to information and updates on the Luton Council Website)
- Carers UK: www.carersuk.org
- NHS: NHS social care page
Starting as a carer can be daunting, but you are not alone. Carers Central, along with other support services in Luton, is there to help you every step of the way. By taking these initial steps and connecting with available resources, you can provide the best possible care for your loved one while also prioritising your own well-being.
