In need of some support for the festive season? From information about the Carers Allowance Christmas bonus to the mental health carers support available, your questions are answered in this ultimate guide.
Every year, tens of thousands of carers dedicate their time to support others during the festive period. Whether you are looking after a loved one or you work in a residential home, every type of carer dedicates time and energy over the festive period.
We know you have many things to think about during the festive period as a carer, so we’ve put together this Carers’ Christmas Survival guide to give you a helping hand.
Get Rest When You Can
While this tip isn’t reinventing the wheel, we know all too well that carers often forget to put themselves first…so this is your friendly reminder to have a moment to yourself. Whether it is a 5-minute coffee break, a cinema trip, or a day off, you can always make time to rest and recharge. It’s essential for you, and taking care of yourself, will benefit your work as a carer.
Do Not Be Afraid To Ask For Help
As a carer, it is important to reach out and ask for help if you are struggling with any aspect of your role. If you have got friends and family that could help, that is a great place to start. Whether they are helping you look after a loved one or tackling some chores while you are at work, it makes a difference.
Carers Allowance Christmas Bonus – Know Your Finances
This year more than ever, many of us are concerned about the cost of Christmas and how we will afford the festivities. Therefore, we recommend you keep an eye on your finances and not overstretch your bank account. It is important that you don’t spend more than you can afford and are honest with those around you about your finances. Remember that everyone is feeling the pinch during this cost of living crisis!
If you are a carer for a loved one, then you may be wondering, ‘Do carers get a Christmas bonus?’ or ‘What are the Carers Allowance Christmas Payment dates?’. If your carers allowance is due on a weekend or bank holiday, you will likely receive it on the prior working day.
Carer’s Allowance Christmas Payment Dates:
- December 26 (Will be paid on December 23)
- December 27 (Will be paid on December 23)
- January 2, 2023 (Will be paid on December 30, 2022)
- January 3, 2023 (Will be paid on December 30, 2022)
If you receive Carer’s Allowance, you will be eligible for the Carers Allowance Christmas bonus of a tax-free £10 payment, which should be paid the first week of December.
Celebrate When You Can
Sometimes we have to celebrate at unconventional hours within the day over the festive period, but that doesn’t make it any less festive. Whether you want to watch a festive film on Netflix, bake a festive treat, or spend time with loved ones, celebrate the festive period when you can.
Plan Ahead
With the festive season approaching, now is the ideal time to start planning. From simple things like what outfit you are going to wear next Tuesday to the bigger stuff, being able to plan ahead can lift a weight off your shoulders.
Mental Health Carers Support
We all know that the festive period can be a challenging time, and as a key worker in a demanding role, we want you to know that there is support should you need it. You are not alone.
Your GP: If you are feeling low, it is perfectly ok to speak with your GP. You do not need to be suffering from a specific mental health problem to receive support. For more information on speaking to your GP, please click here.
Talking Treatments: Treatments, such as counselling, can help you explore your worries and feelings with a professional. You can overcome some of your frustrations or difficulties by speaking to a professional and shifting to a positive space.
Mental Health Helplines: Sometimes, speaking to someone can make a real difference, and there are helplines with trained professionals available. They won’t judge, and they can help you make sense of any feelings you are having.
- Samaritans – 0808 164 0123 (7pm–11pm every day).
- National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK – 0800 689 5652 (open 24/7).
- Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight every day)
- SANEline – 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm–10.30pm every day).
- Papyrus HOPELINE – Available to 35 & under – 0800 068 4141 (weekdays 10am-10pm, weekends 2pm-10pm and bank holidays 2pm–10pm)
- The MIX – Available to those under 25 – 0808 808 4994 (3pm–midnight every day)
- Nightline – Available to Students – Nightline Website.
- Switchboard – LGBTQIA+ Support – 0300 330 0630 (10am–10pm every day)
- C.A.L.L – Available to those who lie in Wales – Website.
