New to Caring

Every year 2 million people become carers, so the first thing to remember is that you are not alone. Becoming a carer can be bewildering, confusing and frightening. As a Carer you may feel you require some support and back up. 

Here are some steps you may wish to follow soon after becoming a Carer 

Step 1 – Remember You’re a Carer

Recognising yourself as a Carer is the very first step to getting the support you need. Many people do not see themselves as Carers straight away as you are doing what anyone would do to help a relative or neighbour who is unable to do things for themselves. The fact is that you are a Carer, and there are things that you need to know. Seeing  yourself as a carer can be the gateway to getting a range of help and support. 

Step 2 – Include Your Family and Friends

Many carers turn to family and friends for support, and to help them to take a break from caring. It is important that you do not try to cope alone, as this can impact on your own physical and mental health. Speak to family and friends and make sure they know the extent of your caring role. Many family members or friends may not realise the level of care you provide. 

Step 3 – Inform Your GP

Make sure that you tell your GP that you are a carer and get them to write it on your notes. If they know that you are a carer, some GPs offer special flexibility with appointments, or are more willing to make home visits. Carers are usually busy and sometimes don’t find time for their own health. A good GP who understands Carers can be a gateway to getting all kinds of help, such as counselling, other medical services, and referrals to Social Services. 

Step 4 – Inform Social Services

Social Services are part of your local council and provide a range of services to Carers and people with disabilities. It is important that they know about the person you are caring for. As a Carer, you are entitled to a Carer’s Assessment, which looks at your needs and how you, as a Carer, can be supported. Social Services can provide replacement care to give you a break, help with aids and adaptations to make life easier or simply be a back up in an emergency. 

You can call The Surrey County Council directly and speak to them about your role as a carer. Alternatively, your GP can refer you. Even if you choose not to have a Carer’s Assessment, it is advisable to let Social Services know that you are a carer, should a time arise when you need urgent assistance. 


Step 5 – Inform People at Work

If you are a working carer you are likely to need a range of support at different times. Telling work you are a Carer is not always an easy step and you might feel it depends on whether your employer is likely to be supportive. Colleagues can be very supportive, and it may help to discuss your situation with someone you can trust at work. You might even find that other colleagues are carers too. 

Step 6 – Register With Carer Support Guildford 

You can make a self referral to our organisation by simply phoning us on 01483 458123. You will then be sent a welcome pack, which contains relevant information that you may find useful. You will go onto our database and receive our free newsletters and invitations to our events, trips and training days. If you require, one of our Carer Support Workers can visit you at home and help you with the support you may need. 

Step 7 – Claim Your Entitlements

The benefit system is complex, and many people who are new to caring are unsure what they should be claiming. Remember the benefits system is there to help and you are entitled to claim. There are a number of benefits available to carers, and we can help you through the process of claiming for benefits. For more information see our ‘Benefits and Assessments’ pages. Our Carer Support Workers can help you to complete benefits forms. 

Step 8 – Look After Yourself

It is easy to neglect yourself when you are busy caring for someone. However, as a carer it is important that you look after yourself. At the very least, you may not be able to help the person you care for if you become ill yourself. Caring without a break, without proper sleep and without support is extremely stressful. It is important that you recognise this and take it seriously. Remember that a little can go a long way so when you can, try and take some time out to do something for yourself. Our events and trips are a good time for you to take a break from caring and meet other carers. 

Step 9 – Think About the Future

As hard as it might be to contemplate, if you are caring for someone elderly or someone with a terminal illness, there will come a time when you are no longer caring. When caring ends it can be extremely hard. By facing the future and thinking about life after caring you can minimise that shock when the time comes. Many people say that when caring ends they feel adrift, without purpose or direction. Although caring can be all-consuming, it is important that you keep as much of your own life going as you can, such as work, friends, hobbies and interests, so that you do not feel lost once your caring role ends. 

Step 10 – Use the Support Available from Carer Support Guildford 

We are here to support you with your caring role. Once you register with us you can utilise our support services. Our support groups are an ideal place for you to meet other carers and discuss issues that you are all facing. Our events and trips allow you to take a break from caring, as well as meeting new people.