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Carers Week: 5 Things Every Carer Should Know

Whether you’re taking your first steps as a carer or have been shouldering this responsibility for some time, the journey can often feel overwhelming and fraught with challenges. Recognising your role, we’ve compiled a collection of tips and insights to remind you of the support systems for carers, aiming to make your path a little easier.

1. Financial help is available.

Caring for a loved one can make it hard to work full-time, leaving many carers worried about their financial situation. However, there is financial support available to help.

Research by Carers UK shows that every year, carers miss out on £1.1 billion in support because they don’t know they can claim it. You may qualify for Carer’s Allowance if you care for someone for 35 hours a week and earn less than £123.

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 Benefits. Remember to inquire about the available support to claim what you are entitled to. 

2. The person you love is still there 

Caring for a loved one can be very stressful, especially when you have to face the fact that they’re battling significant physical and mental health issues.

It’s important to remember that despite any changes in their behaviour or abilities, they are still the same person you care about.

Your relationship might be different now that you’re their caregiver, but what you’re doing is providing them with much-needed support during a challenging time.

3. You are eligible for carer discounts

Here at Discounts for Carers, we understand how challenging it is to care for someone and believe you deserve recognition. That’s why we offer hundreds of discounts and rewards to all our members. And the best part? It’s completely FREE to become a member!

Whether you want to save money on bills or stretch your cash further when shopping online, our carer discounts have covered you.

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

As a carer, it’s crucial not to neglect your health while tending to another’s needs. Informing your GP about your caring role allows you to access tailored support. This could include free flu vaccines, flexible appointments, and connections to helpful organisations about your well-being to help you and the person you care for.

5. Take a break 

Being a carer is tough, and it’s often hard to allow yourself a break due to anxiety or guilt. However, it’s essential to understand that taking time for yourself is necessary. Contact your local council or bodies like Carers Trust for support and respite care options.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Various organisations assist and provide advice. Additionally, discounts are available to help make self-care more accessible.

Support Groups

Remember, there are many resources, like support groups, available to you to support you through your journey as a carer. Check out our Mental Health Blog to learn more.

How to Sign Up for FREE

Discounts for Carers is a FREE to-join and FREE-to-use discount scheme for Paid & Unpaid Carers. We’re all about making your life that little bit lovelier with our money-saving offers. 

Not a member? If you’re not a member of Discounts for Carers, then you’re missing out. We’re here to make your days a little brighter with amazing offers at big brands.   

Key Benefits

  • We’re FREE-to-join and FREE-to-join.    
  • Save up to £2,262* per year.   
  • Browse over 1.5k big-name brands.    
  • You have unrestricted and unlimited use of our discounts.    
  • We send the latest deals, which are emailed to your inbox.   

Discounts for Carers is a FREE to-join and FREE-to-use discount scheme for Paid & Unpaid Carers. We’re all about making your life a little lovelier with our money-saving offers, deals and cashback. 

More From Us

If you enjoyed this blog, then make sure you check out more from us. We have a variety of blogs for you to enjoy, from Top 5 Places to be a Nurse, Money Saving Travel Hacks, to Tips to Save on Your Weekly Food Shop.

Check out our blog regularly so you never miss out.

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