A carer is anyone (adult or child) who looks after a family member, partner or friend who needs help because of illness, frailty, disability or a mental health problem, who cannot cope without their support. A carer is anyone (adult or child) who looks after a family member, partner or friend who needs help because of illness, frailty, disability or a mental health problem, who cannot cope without their support.
Being a carer while managing your own long term health condition can present many challenges and requires careful self-care and efficient and effective approaches to balance the needs of the cared for person and the carer.
Family members and friends may also have caring roles and may be relied upon to help with day-to-day activities such as washing or dressing, shopping or attending medical appointments.
Undertaking unpaid care duties can be very demanding and can take a toll on the individual’s own health and wellbeing. In line with the Social Services and Well-Being (Wales) Act 2014 – unpaid carers are entitled to an assessment of their own needs.
A carer’s assessment gives you the opportunity to talk to a social care professional about what could make caring easier for you and what help and support is available for you. It is not an assessment of your ability to care and you do not have to pay for the assessment.
This can be requested by getting in touch with your local authority:
There are other voluntary organisations who can give advice and support:
Gwent Association of Voluntary Organisations is a Community Voluntary Organisation which is committed to strengthening the effectiveness of the Voluntary and Community Sector across Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Monmouthshire and Newport - GAVO
Carers Wales aim to make life better for carers; we give expert advice, information and support, ensuring that no-one has to care alone. They campaign together for lasting change endeavouring to find new ways to reach and support carers - Carers Wales - Phone: 029 2081 1370
Carers Trust Wales – Provides action, help and advice to carers throughout Wales. Their staff work to improve support, services and recognition for anyone living with the challenges of caring. With their local Network Partners they aim to ensure that information, advice and practical support are available to all carers across the country - Carers Trust Wales - Phone: 0300 772 9702
Melo Cymru – Provides support and information to help people who live and work in Torfaen, Newport, Monmouthshire, Caerphilly, Blaenau Gwent look after their mental wellbeing - Melo Cymru
Dewis Cymru – Provides a range of information relating to services for adults and children. The website provides links to a resource directory where you will find local and national organisations and services that may be able to help. You will find a range of information relating to services for adults -Dewis Cymru
Disability Advice Project – Provides a welfare rights service to support disabled people, their families and carers - Disability Advice Project