Adult carers (over 25)
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. It also helps people who don't think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.
Why not come along to our Carers Voice Group during the week.
A chance to come together, share perspectives and be part of the conversation about the work taking place to support carers in Kent.
Date and time: Tuesday 9 June 10am to 12pm
Online via Microsoft Teams
Chaired by Richard Munn and Chris Jeffery
Email makingadifference@kent.gov.uk to come along.
Find out more about Carers' Week
Find out about how our Technology Enhanced Lives Service can help and support carers. The service provides information, advice and guidance on equipment and simple gadgets to keep people safe and independent in their own home. See how the service is supporting Carers Week.
Or why not come along to our Technology Enhanced Lives Service roadshow at Dartford Library, Tuesday 9 June, 10am to 4pm.
You can see demonstrations of the equipment, find out more and see how technology can help you and those you look after.
To view in full screen mode, please click here.
Involve Kent supports individuals to recognise their role as a carer. They can arrange a carer's assessment, which can identify any information, support or services that are available. This may include support groups, well being events or any specific training that support the caring role.
What is a carer?
A carer is someone who looks after a friend, partner or family member who can't manage without help because of illness, disability, mental health issues, or addiction. This care is unpaid and different from professional or volunteer care.
Carers often find it hard to separate their caring duties from their relationship with the person they care for, whether they are a parent, child, sibling, partner, or friend.
Many of us will find ourselves in a caring role at some point in our lives. While caring for a loved one can be rewarding, it also comes with its challenges. Carers often juggle their responsibilities with work, school, and other family commitments. Some carers, especially younger ones, might not even realise they are carers or may not tell others about their role due to fear, guilt, pride, or other reasons.
There is support out there to assist them, but many carers don't know about it.
Carers may help with:
- personal care (washing, bathing, dressing, feeding)
- medication
- cooking
- shopping
- housework
- emotional support
Carers support
To view in full screen mode, please click here.
If you live in Kent you will have access to a Carers’ Support Organisation that has been commissioned by Kent County Council and the NHS to provide a Carers’ Assessment and Support Service.
To view in full screen mode, please click here.
New carers' self-assessment tool
Visit the BetterCare Carers Self-Assessment Tool. It’s easy to use, confidential, and accessible. Plus, it gives you personalised advice and support including:
- information and advice about resources and support to help you live your life independently
- helping you explore your support needs
- helping you consider areas where you want to make a change and the support you may need to do this
- helping you use your strengths and capabilities in making the changes you want
- guiding you with useful animated videos.
Kent Libraries - How they can help
Kent Libraries, Registration and Archives offer a variety of services to support carers, including free book loans, home delivery of books, access to eBooks and online resources, and help with using computers.