Woodbrook Medical Centre would like to make sure that our patients who provide care to others feel well supported for their healthcare, emotional and social needs.
How do I know if I am a carer?
A Carer is someone who provides unpaid support to a family member, friend or neighbour, who has a disability, illness, mental health condition, addiction, or who needs extra help as they grow older. You may do this full time or just for a few hours a week.
Carers can help with:
- Washing or dressing
- Shopping, cleaning or laundry
- Managing medication
- Attending appointments or social activities
- Providing emotional support
If this sounds like you, let us know by completing a Carer’s Identification Form. The form can be downloaded below or collected from the surgery, copies are available in both waiting areas.
Health check-ups
Life can become very hectic especially if you have lots of caring responsibilities, but it’s important not to neglect your own health needs. Attending appointments, check-ups and screenings is vital for yourself as well as any loved ones.
We know that carers sometimes carry on regardless through coughs, flu, stomach upsets and worse; but please don’t put off contacting us if you feel unwell.
Local support services for carers
VASL are a local support service who can offer help to carers over the age of 18. They can offer:
- A dedicated telephone advice and support line so you can talk to a team of experienced professionals in confidence about any aspect of being a carer
- Assistance in completing a carers assessment
- Information on carers support groups around the country
- An informative website with self-help videos
- Advice on any aspect of the caring role, including financial and legal assistance
For more information please visit:
Support for Carers Leicestershire – VASL
Leicestershire Support For Carers
To check if you are eligible for this service, please visit: Eligibility Criteria for Services – VASL
To refer yourself to VASL either call 01858 433232 or use the following link: Register for VASL
The Leicestershire carers directory can also provide you with useful information about help that may be available to you.
Leicestershire Carers Directory [EXTERNAL LINK]
Other resources:
Carers: help and support – Citizens Advice
Benefits and financial support if you’re caring for someone – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Where to find support for carers – Mind
Support and benefits for carers – Social care and support guide – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Getting help and support as a carer | Alzheimer’s Society (alzheimers.org.uk)
Help for young carers – Social care and support guide – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Find Your Local Young Carer Service | The Children’s Society (childrenssociety.org.uk)