Carers Agent – Lauren 07494883579 E-mail  Lauren-carers@Somersetrcc.org.uk

Support service for unpaid carers. Supports carers with whatever support they need, they may feel isolated, need help with benefits, information regarding support groups or a chat to discuss their problems.

Lauren is working to help young carers transition to adult carers, this will start in the New Year (2019).

Young carers are offered support as above.

Lauren has organised Carers Support Groups at Redgate surgery between 10-12 the first Friday of every month.

Any referrals can be e-mailed to Lauren.

There is a wealth of information on NHS Choices about carers and caring. Below are some links into the site that we hope you will find useful.

Telling people

Caring responsibilities can make it difficult to maintain friendships or develop new ones. Telling your friends you're a carer is important so they understand and can support you.

Taking a break

Caring for someone can be a full-time job, but it's essential that you take time out for yourself too. Read our guide to accessing breaks and respite.

Housing and carers

Do you know your tenancy rights as a carer? Are you aware of all your care at home options? Do you need tips on moving someone around the home?

Telephone: 0808 802 0202

Website: Carersdirect

Email: CarersDirect@nhschoices.nhs.uk

Office Hours: 8am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 11am to 4pm at weekends. Calls are free from UK landlines.

Help claiming benefits, looking after your bank balance and understanding the legal issues of caring.

Benefits for carers

Directing carers to the benefits that can help them in their caring role

Benefits for the person you care for

Advice and information on helping the person you look after get the benefits that they are entitled to

Death and benefits

How your benefits maybe affected after the death of the person you look after and what happens to their benefits

Managing someone's legal affairs

Advice for when carers find they have to take over the legal affairs of the person they are looking after

Other benefits

Advice for carers and the people they are looking after on claiming a whole host of other benefits unrelated to their disability or caring

Personal and household finance

Advice on keeping a tight rein on household and personal finance for carers

Social fund

Tax credits

Information on claiming tax credits and whether you might be eligible