Carers in Liverpool may be missing out on vital support that could make their life easier.
As part of Carers Rights Day on Friday 25 November, the city’s estimated 50,000 carers are being urged to request an assessment to make sure they are getting all the help they are entitled to.
The number of carers in receipt of direct support from the city council has risen by 24 percent over the last year to 1,800 – but is still only less than four percent of the total number.
Two drop-in events are being held in the city this Friday for people to find out more about the help available:
Liverpool Carers Centre and The Brain Charity are offering a chance to meet carer advocates and their health and wellbeing co-ordinator at their centre on Norton Street from 1-4pm. Call 0151 298 2999 for more information.
The Mersey Care NHS Trust Broadoak Unit on Thomas Drive in Dovecot is putting on an afternoon tea and information event from 1:30pm – 4pm. More information is available by calling 0151 250 5045.
Once a carer has been assessed and are identified as being eligible, they receive a support plan, tailored information and advice. This can include access to:
• The Carers Health and Wellbeing Service delivered by Local Solutions – which offers a variety of activities for carers in the community with a range of support that reduces the negative impact of caring on them and promotes their health and wellbeing.
• The Carers Advocacy Service offered by The Brain Charity – free, independent, professional advocacy service for all carers
There is also access to assessment and support for carers aged 25 and under delivered by Barnardo’s Action With Young Carers.
Councillor Paul Brant, Cabinet member for adult services and health, said: “Many people don’t even realise that they are classed as carers and could well be missing out on vital benefits and other types of support such as respite breaks.
“Although the council is having to make tough choices due to reductions in national spending, we are committed to providing support to the most vulnerable.
“This is why we are encouraging anyone who cares for a family member or friend to take up their right to a carer’s assessment. This gives you the chance to talk about how caring affects you and to find out about what support you can get and the rights that you have.”
To find out more about carer’s assessments please visit www.liverpool.gov.uk/carersassessment or call Careline on 0151 233 3800 for an information pack.
