Bath-based charity the Carers’ Centre will launch a new support line service this Carers Week, beginning next Monday 10th June, providing free advice and information about looking after someone.
The charity has specialist carer support officers available to answer the phone from 8:15am – 12noon weekdays.
Carers can also access email support using the email address: [email protected].
The charity is working to expand their digital services and hopes to offer web chat as an addition in the future.
Carers’ Centre Chief Executive David Trumper said: “Looking after someone can leave you with lots of questions. Navigating the health and social care system, juggling work and finances, balancing caring and other family responsibilities, as well as planning for the future can all be challenging.
“Sometimes it’s good to talk to someone who understands and can help point you in the right direction and connect you with others going through the same thing.
“Our free and confidential Support Line, staffed by experienced and friendly Support Officers, is here to help you feel in control of your caring role.”
The Carers’ Centre Freephone number is 0800 0388 885.
The launch of the support line coincides with Carers Week, an annual campaign that raises public awareness of caring, highlights the immense challenges faced by unpaid carers, and recognises the contribution carers make to their families and UK society.
Becoming a carer can happen overnight, affecting employment, income, social relationships and self-confidence.
Carers can often be at a loss as to where to turn. The support line will be a link to free guidance for carers – new to caring or otherwise – to help them manage the stresses and strains of looking after someone.
The number of carers in Bath and North East Somerset was recorded as 18,000 in the 2011 census.
It is now thought to be closer to 20,000 and there is an expected increase to 30,000 by 2030 according to research by the Carers Trust.
The charity also hopes to generate local publicity that will help people who care for someone, but don’t recognise themselves as a carer, to realise they have caring responsibilities and that this entitles them to support from local agencies.
Carers can call the support line on 0800 0388 885 between 8:15 and noon weekdays. Outside of those hours, a message can be left.