Services for Carers
London Borough of Bexley provides Community Care services for people
who need help to manage at home. We provide help for carers too. We
know that family and friends give most of the care that is needed.
So we also want to support anyone who is a carer with their caring
tasks.
Who is a Carer?
You are a carer if you are a relative or a friend of someone
who needs help with their care. This can be practical help, such as help with
personal care including washing, dressing and feeding. Or it can be help which
makes sure they do not put themselves at risk by wandering, leaving the gas on
or forgetting to eat properly. Alternatively it may be providing companionship
to help prevent loneliness and depression.
We help both children and adults. They may have any kind of disability, such as mental
health problems, physical or learning disabilities, or be frail because of their
age.
Rights for Carers
In Bexley we already ask carers how we can support them. The
government has brought in a new Act for Carers. Anyone who 'provides or intends
to provide a substantial amount of care on a regular basis' can ask for a separate
assessment of their needs by Social Services.
If you regularly care for someone or expect to care for someone who is eligible
for community care services, you have the right to ask for an assessment. This
is an opportunity to discuss what help you need and what would help you stay well.
Support Services for Carers
Bexley Council already provides services to help carers, including:
- advice and information
- flexible breaks for carers
- respite care to give carers a break
- carers' groups.
Voluntary groups also provide help for carers and we can put you in touch with them.
For a directory of services for carers please e-mail info@carerssupport.org or telephone 020 8302 8011.
If you or someone you know would like information in another language you can
contact our interpreting service.
What Next?
People already in contact with Social Services:
If you are a carer and would like more information, or you want to talk about
the support you need, contact your Social Worker or Care Manager.
If you are not already in touch with Social Services:
If you are a carer and would like more information contact Kath Hollands on 01322
338582, who will put you in contact with the person you need to speak to.
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