Identifying Carers

Do you look after someone who is ill, frail, disabled or mentally ill? If so, you are a carer.

We are interested in identifying carers, especially those people who may be caring without help or support. We know that carers are often “hidden” looking after a family member or helping a friend or neighbour with day to day tasks and may not see themselves as a carer.

We feel that caring for someone is an important and valuable role in the community, which is often a 24-hour job that can be very demanding and isolating for the carer. We further believe carers should receive appropriate support by way of access to accurate information on a range of topics such as entitlement to benefits and respite care and not least, a listening ear when things get too much. Oakley Friends now run a free information course for carers which covers various aspects of dementia. Please download there leaflet for more information Oakley Friends Poster May 2022 FINAL

As a carer, you are entitled to have your needs assessed by Adult Care Services. A Carer’s Assessment is a chance to talk about your needs as a carer and the possible ways help could be given. It also looks at the needs of the person you care for. This could be done separately, or together, depending on the situation. There is no charge for an assessment.

Please access the following websites. www.mylifemycare.com, www.helpandcare.org.uk and this website for more information. Download the Dorset Carers Handbook (PDF, 679KB)

If you are a carer, this is also an opportunity to let the Practice know so that we can update our records and send you a Carers pack containing relevant information and advice, local support services, newsletter and telephone linkline.

Please complete the form below if you are a carer, or click here to download the form and return the completed form to the surgery, alternatively make an appointment with reception if you would like to discuss anything further with a GP.