Carers
Do you help to look after someone a few hours a week (or more) that relies on you for emotional, medical, personal, or physical care or help with domestic tasks? You could be a carer and would possibly benefit from support.
There are an estimated 63,685 carers in Worcestershire self-identified in the last census 2011. We expect this has increased greatly more recently including because of COVID-19.
The level of caring can vary in its intensity, frequency and may fluctuate and can vary depending on each individual.
You have the same rights to support as the people you care for
Care Act 2014
Under the Care Act 2014, the Council has a duty to provide information, advice, and support to carers. This is to make sure that Carers' well-being is promoted by helping you to balance your caring role and the rest of your life. This will help with your mental and physical health and well-being. All partners signed up to the all age Carers Strategy will work with carers to recognise and value carers, help develop a life of your own and support to be mentally and physically well. To do this we will identify the resources already available to you in your family, friends and community networks and put support in place to complement these where necessary.
Carer awareness
For information about what a carer is, the impacts this can have on the carer’s life, the rights of carers and what support is available, see the Carer awareness resources page.
COVID-19 guidance
There is lots of information on the GOV.UK website regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19). The webpages are updated regularly: Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Vaccinations
- Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
- Website: Carers UK vaccine frequently asked questions.
If you need further advice or support you can also contact our local carers organisations and they will advise you if you are able to receive your COVID-19 vaccine: Worcestershire Association of Carers.
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
PPE remains free either until March 2023 or until guidance changes.
There is guidance on infection prevention and control:
COVID-19: infection prevention and control (IPC) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
If you are an unpaid carer, you are eligible for free PPE, you can complete our online form:
Having a back up plan if you are unable to care for someone
It is important for you to have a contingency plan for the person you care for. If you need support to do this please contact Worcestershire Association for Carers: Worcestershire Association of Carers.
If you have specific queries about the person you care for, please contact the Adult Social Care Access Centre: 01905 768053 - you will be redirected to the appropriate team as appropriate or email: AdultTeam@worcestershire.gov.uk.