Top Tips from Carers

Caring for someone can be rewarding—but also challenging. We’ve gathered top tips from local carers who’ve been there. Whether you’re new to caring or have years of experience, these insights can help you feel more supported, connected, and confident. 

Tip of the Month

"If the person you care for has a degenerative condition, they may eventually be unable to complete tasks they currently manage. Take time to learn these tasks—such as cooking, managing finances, or driving—so you're prepared."

Support and Guidance for Carers

Note: There are other services besides the NHS that may have shorter waiting times, but they often come with a cost. (Consider whether to include this, as it may not be accessible for carers on a low income.)

Connect with other carers: Reach out for support from others in similar caring roles. There are local groups, information services, advice lines, and befriending services available to carers.

Prepare for change: If the person you care for has a degenerative condition, they may eventually be unable to complete tasks they currently manage. Take time to learn these tasks—such as cooking, managing finances, or driving—so you're prepared.

Set up Power of Attorney (POA): Get POAs in place while the person still has mental capacity. It’s easy to put off, but important to act early—you never know what might happen or when.

Join a group: There’s real value in joining carer groups. It can be reassuring and less isolating to know others are going through similar experiences. Even if you can’t attend often, it can still help.

Find balance: Caring can change your life overnight. It’s important to make time for yourself and prioritise your well-being from the start of your caring journey.

Set boundaries: Not everything needs to be done immediately. It’s okay to say no if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unable to manage something.

Stay organised: Planning your day, week, month, or year can help reduce stress and make it easier to carve out time for yourself.