Help for carers is just a telephone call away

Then free advice, information and practical support from Lancashire County Council and Carers Lancashire are only a phone call away.

Joanne Miller, carers’ strategy officer at Lancashire County Council, said: “Research shows that many people do not think of themselves as carers and are completely unaware of the services available to them.

“However, if you look after a relative, partner, friend or neighbour who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or substance misuse problems, you are one of the county’s estimated 130,000 carers.

“This means you are entitled to free help and support that could really change your life – or perhaps you’d just like a brew and a chat. Whatever you need, we’re here to help.” Three out of five people will be carers at some point in their lives, and there is a wide range of services to help them to cope.

Many of these, such as the Peace of Mind for Carers scheme, are free and do not involve being assessed by social services.

The Peace of Mind scheme ensures someone is ready to step in 24/7 if a carer is caught up in an unforeseen situation like a traffic jam, sudden illness or emergency admission to hospital. Around 6,000 carers currently have a Peace of Mind plan ready in case of an emergency.

The scheme, like many services for carers, was developed with the support the Lancashire Carers’ Forum.

The forum meets regularly and gives carers the opportunity to share information, raise concerns and be directly involved in shaping carers’ services across Lancashire.

Call Carers Lancashire on 0345 688 7113.