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Information for carers - BSL translation video transcript

Video starts with a British Sign Language interpreter signing the following information.

Information for carers

If you look after someone who is an adult and needs your help, you are a ‘carer’. There is support for you, too.

How to get help

Help is available from KCC Adult Social Services, from your GP and from a carers’ organisation. You can ask for a ‘carer's assessment’ to talk about how looking after someone affects your life, what is important to you and how KCC can help. This could be a ‘break’ from caring, advice and information on local services, planning for the future or equipment in the home.

Finances

You can get help to find out about any finances and benefits you might be entitled to and help and advice about how to apply. Carers do not have to cope alone with any financial worries.

Get a break from caring

KCC may be able to help if you need a break and a rest from looking after someone. It could be short breaks for a few hours or longer breaks by arranging care at your home or the ‘cared for’ to be supported to have some time in a care home.

Your health and wellbeing

Looking after someone can be demanding, tiring and stressful. It is important to remember to look after yourself. You could get self-help advice or support from a carers’ organisation in Kent. It is also very important to keep yourself safe – it is never right to feel threatened or intimidated. If you do experience violence or abuse, please contact the police or KCC.

Planning for the future

Whether you have a job and want to keep it, or looking for a job or want to learn something new, there is help and advice available. You might be interested in volunteering work which could help you build confidence to return to work.

Parent carers

If you are a parent looking after a child with a disability, you can get help with short breaks, to get in involved with support groups, to have support at home, to get a carer's assessment or with practical information with your mental health and wellbeing.

Young carers

If you under 18 and look after someone who is ill or disabled or uses drugs or alcohol, KCC could help you with finding activities and opportunities to meet with other young carers.

Contact to make a referral for a carer's assessment

If you think you need a carer's assessment or want to find out more:

Video ends