Carers Week: 5 Things Every Carer Should Know

For Carers Week 2022, we have put together some tips and reminders of the support that is available for carers. From financial support to grabbing yourself some much-deserved discounts as a free member of Discount For Carers, it is important to remember that there is support out there for you.  

If you are caring for a loved one then you will be all too familiar with how lonely and isolating it can be. From long working hours and sleepless nights, it can be impossible to ever do anything for yourself. 

However, it is important to remember that you are not alone. 

1. There is financial help available

Caring for a loved one may make it difficult to work full-time, which for many carers leaves them worried about their financial situation. However, there is financial support out there that can help. 

Research carried about by Carers UK found that £1.1 billion of support for carers goes unclaimed each year, with carers not realising that the funding is available to them. 

For example, if you care for someone at least 35 hours a week and are earning less than £123 a week then you may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance. You can click here to check if you are eligible. 

You may also be able to claim other benefits such as Income Support or Housing Benefit. Remember to reach out and enquire about the support available so that you can claim what you are entitled to. 

2. The person you love is still there 

Caring for a loved one can put you under a considerable amount of pressure and it can be difficult to come to terms with the fact that your friend or family member is struggling so much with their physical and mental health. 

However, no matter how much your relationship with them has changed since becoming their carer, keep in mind that the person you love is still there. Just because they are behaving differently and aren’t able to do the things they could previously, doesn’t mean that they aren’t the same person. Instead, you are entering a new chapter in your relationship and offering them comfort and support at an unfamiliar and sometimes frightening time. 

3. You are eligible for carer discounts

Here at Discounts for Carers, we appreciate just how hard it is to care for someone and we think that you deserve plenty of recognition. Therefore, we have hundreds of discounts and rewards available to all our members. Want to hear the even better news? It is completely FREE to become a member! 

So, whether you are looking to save some money by reducing your bills or want your cash to go further when shopping online, our carer discounts have got you covered.  Treat yourself this Carers Week!

4. You should inform your GP that you are a carer 

While as a carer you can become so focussed on the health and wellbeing of the person you are caring for, it is just as important that you don’t let your own needs take a back seat. In fact, taking the time to look after yourself and your own needs can have a positive impact on the person you care for yourself. 

Therefore, we would recommend that you let your GP know that you are a carer so that they can provide you with the right support. Not only can they help you stay healthy and put you in contact with other organisations and charities that can offer advice, but they can tailor the treatment you receive. 

For example, carers are entitled to free flu vaccinations and doctors’ surgeries may be able to offer you more flexible appointment times for both you and the person you are caring for. As a carer, you are more likely to become ill yourself and if your GP is aware of your role they can help you maintain your health and wellbeing. 

5. Take a break this Carers Week

One of the biggest challenges that you can face as a carer is knowing when to take a break. Despite how stressful and challenging caring for someone is, it can be difficult to accept that you need a break and to take time for yourself. 

From feeling anxious that your loved one will suffer in your absence to feeling guilty for needing some time alone, many carers do not get as much rest as they need. But it is important that you speak to your local council or charities that can help such as Carers Trust which may be able to offer alternative care or respite care. 

No matter who you are caring for, your relationship with them or the kind of support you are offering them, you should remember that you are not alone. As a carer, there are charities and agencies that can offer your help and advice whenever you need it. And with a range of discounts to choose from, you can treat yourself and make your money go further. 

Join for FREE today for access to our carer discounts for Carers Week!