Carers
Supporting and taking care of a loved one diagnosed with cancer is extremely demanding, and can place a heavy burden on the emotional and physical resources of partners, family members and friends. Getting reliable information in a format to suit you is a really important way to help you feel more in control of your situation.
Information can make it easier to anticipate some of the difficulties you and the person you are caring for might face-it can help you get the right support at the right time.
Getting Started
If you're new to the carer role we suggest you obtain a copy of the "New to Caring" booklet from Carers UK ; Tel: 0845 241 0963
Web Info Source : www.carersuk.org
This contains advice from experienced carers and covers all the basics that one needs to know about the financial, practical and emotional aspects of caring - and the range of help available.
- You should tell your GP that you have become a carer as they may have a Carers Support Worker attached to the practice.
- And remember that if you have a specialist nurse at the hospital they are there to help and support you in your role as well so do make the time to discuss any concerns that you may have.
Information Sources
Whilst there are no national organisations specifically for cancer carers you will find that the following carers organisations can provide you with excellent information on all aspects of the carers role. They both offer enquiry services.
Carers UK
Tel : 0808 808 7777
Web: www.carersuk.org is a national organisation with local branches across the country offering advice and support. The website is comprehensive and includes downloadable information sheets.
Princess Royal Trust for Carers
Tel: 0844 800 4361
Web : www.carers.org offers useful information and support for all unpaid carers throughout the UK.
The Carers Information website : www.carersinformation.org.uk provides up to date information and resources on caring for people at home - to help both informal carers and professionals who work with them.
Other Cancer Organisations:
CancerBackup
Tel: 0808 800 1234
Web Info Source : www.cancerbackup.org.uk includes an excellent section on caring for someone who has cancer on the website link above.
Macmillan Cancer Support
Web : www.macmillan.org.uk In additition to checking out the information on the website we recommend that you obtain a copy of their guide to caring for a loved one with cancer. Written by carers- entitled "Hello and How Are You?" it can be downloaded or you can request a copy by calling the Macmillan helpline on 0808 8082020.
Please also see the Help & Support pages of this website.
Practical Support
The best place to start is to contact your local Carers Centre where you will find a wealth of information and guidance to local services in your area. You can find them by contacting your local Social Services department or visit the Princess Royal Trust for Carers Tel: 0844 800 4361 Website : www.carers.org and use their search facility.
If you provide care for a friend or relative and that person cannot manage without your help you are entitled to a carers assessment. Carers UK Tel: 0808 808 7777 has a comprehensive guide which you can either download via their website here or request by phone.
Your local Citizens Advice Bureau can offer help with benefit, legal and housing queries as well as a range of other subjects. You can find your local bureau by following this link or in the phone book.
Crossroads for Carers Tel: 0845 450 0350 Web: www.crossroads.org.uk is a national organisation that can provide practical support, normally in the home, in order to give carers time for themselves. Details of local schemes and contact numbers can be found on their website.
The British Red Cross www.redcross.org.uk offers short term support for independant living - this includes help in the home following discharge from hospital and provision of equipment. You can find your local branch through their website.
- Remember to ask your GP or your specialist nurse at the hospital – they will be able to help you access services in the home.
Financial and Legal Help
Carers Allowance
Carers who look after someone for 35 hours per week or more may be entitled to claim Carers Allowance in addition to other benefits. Carers UK has a good guide on their website here or you could call the Macmillan Benefits helpline on 0808 801 0304.
FundingCaring
Web : www.fundingcaring.co.uk provides clear and easy to understand information on the costs of financing of all types of care whether it is long term residential care or short term nursing.
Many carers may find themselves having to look after the financial affairs of the person they are caring for. Help the Hospice website provides an excellent guide which can be downloaded free or purchased by calling 0870 903 3 903.
For other information please see the financial issues section on this website.
Emotional Support
Caring for others can be satisfying and rewarding, however for many carers it can also become challenging and stressful for a number of reasons. Support can take many forms - you may feel that it would be helpful to talk with someone on a one to one basis, share experiences at a support group or you may prefer an online support network.
The Macmillan Cancer Line – 0808 808 2020 offers help and support by phone, letter and email. They can also provide details about local support groups.
Your local Carers Centre will be able to provide you with details of local groups and resources in your area (see Practical support for details of how to find your local centre).
All of the national organisations listed in our Information and Support pages offer support services to carers and families as well as the patient so you may find it helpful to contact them. They should also be able to direct you to sources of help in your local area.
Young Carers
If you are a young carer or you are looking for help for a young carer then there are two websites we suggest you visit for general information and support. Both organisations have on line forums and links to other resources.
The Princess Royal Trust : www.youngcarers.net
The Childrens Society : www.youngcarer.com#
Riprap : www.riprap.org.uk is an excellent site for 12 to 16 year olds who have a parent with cancer and is strongly recommended.
Page Updated : 13-Jul-2009