What's the issue?

Often carers are excluded from taking part in a course, or a job, because it is simply not realistic to combine with caring responsibilities.  Maybe the course is scheduled in the evening and sitting services are not provided, or a job demands staying after hours, or the leisure centre is two bus-rides away. Work, learning and leisure help us play a  part in our local communities. When carers fall out of these worlds they become isolated and that in turn can have devastating effects on their health.

What should happen?

Carers' Assessments

Carers need a chance to discuss their care needs but also to look at all aspects of their lives. A good carer’s assessment can provide this. 

Carers’ assessments should

• Look at whether the carer wishes to continue caring
• Establish what the carers needs to help them do the job, e.g. breaks, extra support, equipment, adaptations
• Plan what will happen in an emergency e.g. if the carer becomes ill
  Should address whether the carer wants to work, take part in leisure and learning
• Explore what services can be put in place to help them take up these
  

Download our new briefing - Spotlight on Carers' Equal Opportunities here