Valuing the role of Carers

Just a few years ago, the onset of the coronavirus pandemic brought unprecedented attention to the care sector. Our dedicated Carers have stood as a solid support system for our community for more than a decade, ensuring the safety and well-being of our Clients in their homes. The nation's response to our sector has been heartening, with a newfound recognition for the exceptional work our Carer Assistants undertake. At Right at Home Tyneside, the welfare of our Carers is paramount. We prioritize their well-being just as they prioritize that of our Clients, ensuring a reciprocal culture of care and support.

Regrettably, numerous family Carers lack the support network available to paid Carers, and the challenges of dedicating oneself to full-time care for a loved one can prove daunting. Whether you've transitioned into the role gradually over several years or have suddenly assumed the responsibilities as a young Carer, the burden can be substantial. According to the national charity Carers UK, an additional 6,000 individuals shoulder caregiving duties daily, totaling over 2 million new Carers each year. Without adequate support mechanisms in place, this responsibility can significantly affect a Carer's mental health and overall well-being.

Carers Week 2024

Carers Week, an annual event which runs this year from Monday 10 June – Sunday 16 June 2024, aims to put unpaid Carers in touch with the right services to provide them with the advice and support they need to support a loved one. A great starting point is the Carers Week website. This is filled with useful resources, tips and guidance for family Carers.

For many family Carers around Newcastle and the Tyneside areas, our respite homecare services provide them with peace of mind that their loved one is in safe hands whilst they take a well-deserved break. For some Clients, we provide one hour of home respite care per day whilst their full-time Carer walks the family dog or pops to the shops. For other Clients, we provide a full day of care once a week, so family Carers can have a full day to rest and recharge their batteries, away from their caring duties.

Carer’s Allowance

If you care for someone for 35 hours a week or more, you may be entitled to Carer’s Allowance.
You could get £81.90 per week, although this depends on whether the person you care for receives a benefit such as Attendance Allowance or Disability Living Allowance, for example. (Amount correct at the time of publication).
It is important to note that you do not have to be related to or live with the person you care for. Read more about Carer’s Allowance and how to claim this on the Government website.

How is Carer’s Allowance paid?

If you are eligible for Carer’s Allowance, you can choose to be paid every four weeks, or weekly in advance. It will be paid into an account, for example your bank account.

What other Carer discounts or benefits am I entitled to?

For every week that you receive Carer’s Allowance, you will automatically get National Insurance credits. You may also be able to apply for other things like a Council Tax Reduction. Take a look at the Government’s website for full details on what discounts or benefits are available for Carers.

If you would like more information on how we can support family Carers in Newcastle and Tyneside with respite care services, please speak to a member of our office team on 0191 215 5555.

Useful resources:

Carers Trust - a registered charity in England, Wales and Scotland providing advice and guidance for Carers

Carers UK’s online forum for Carers