We recognise that as a carer you play a vital role in the life of the person you look after. So, we need to work alongside you to offer you the support you need.
It may be that you are not sure what you need or what services are available to you. To find out more you can phone or make an appointment with the duty social worker and they will give you advice and information.
What is a carer's assessment and how would it help me?
A carer's assessment looks at all of the caring tasks you do and what would make caring easier for you. It identifies the different ways we can support you and meet your needs.
How are decisions made about the help I get?
To help us make our decisions, we use guidance from the government called 'Fair Access to Care'|. This helps us decide which of your needs are eligible for assistance.
Where your needs are identified as being not eligible for assistance, we will tell you where you can go for help. A leaflet about 'Fair Access to Care' is available in local offices or from your assessing officer.
Will I have to pay for a carer's assessment?
This is a free service. You can be assessed on your own or together with the person you are caring for.
There are many voluntary organisations and groups in Gateshead who offer help to carers on things such as:
11 Regent Terrace
Gateshead
NE8 1LU
Tel: 0800 328 9241
E-mail: Gateshead Carers Association|
Web: www.gatesheadcarers.com|
This is a charity that supports, informs and represents carers. They can:
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meet with carers to talk through things in confidence and let them know what help is available;
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offer emotional support and counselling;
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answer any queries that carers may have;
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provide support groups, social support, courses for carers and benefit sessions.
97 Bewick Road
Gateshead
NE8 1RR
Tel: 0191 478 2423
Fax: 0191 478 5476
E-mail: Enquiries|
Gateshead Crossroads Caring for Carers provides practical support where and when it is most needed. This is usually in the home, giving the carer time away from caring. It also - through its Community Service - supports carers in the meeting of their health, social and skill-based needs.
In addition, a service for young carers offers a support service where a trained carer support worker will take over from the carer to give them personal time away from caring. They then have time to use as they wish - to see friends, keep appointments, study, read or even just sleep.
Second floor
Computer House
High Street
Gateshead
NE8 1ET
Tel: 0191 477 7490
Fax: 0191 478 3131
E-mail: Alzheimer's Society|
The Gateshead Branch provides information, advice and support for people with dementia and their carers.
Caring for someone with dementia can be a lonely and isolating experience. The Branch offers a range of services to support carers in their caring role:
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Carer Support Service;
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Information and advice, one to one support, a listening ear and emotional support;
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Carer Support Groups - a chance to meet, relax and share common experiences and problems with other carers and former carers;
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The Sitting Service - provides company to the person with dementia so that the carer can have a break;
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Social events;
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Monthly Drop In;
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Newsletter.