Carers Week is an annual campaign in June to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make.
Caring is a huge undertaking and we want our carers to know exactly what resources and support are available to them.
Caring for a loved one can take its toll, emotionally and physically and it is important that you take time to look after yourself. It is not uncommon for a carer to wait until they reach breaking point before seeking help. Asking for support can be tough, but you should see your own wellbeing as just as important as that of your loved one. After all, it is easier to care for someone else when you are taking care of yourself
Advice and support from the charity
Specialist Advisers
Our advisers can help by offering advice, signposting to specialist services for your loved ones, offering recommendations and helping with things such as PIP or Continuing Health Care (CHC) applications.
Branches and support groups
We have branch and support groups across England and Wales. These are run by volunteers but overseen by our Volunteer Manager. Support groups often meet monthly or a number of times a year and are relaxed sessions where you can benefit from peer support. Our branches also meet regularly but often host events, days out, have Huntignton's speakers and sometimes fundraising activities. If you don't see a support group in your area but would like to set one up - we can support you with this.
The Treasurer of the London branch, Sharon attended the Hillingdon Carer Fair in North West London as part of Carer's Week. Sharon said the event went well and she had the opportunity to speak with lots of people including the Mayor, Cllr Colleen Sullivan who is pictured with Sharon below.
Online carers groups
This is a relaxed and informal group giving carers a chance to chat and share experiences. The groups are facilitated by our Specialist Huntington's Disease Advisers and are open to all carers no matter what part of the Huntington's journey they are on or their caring role.
Resources
We host regular webinars on topics that aim to make living with Huntington's easier, we also have a library of past webinars on occupational therapy, future planning and things specifically for carers.
You can also find a range of information resources at the bottom of our carers page covering topics such as:
- Managing challenging behaviour
- Managing communication difficulties
- Financial help
- Practical matters
- Respite
- Keeping active
Helpline
Do you need to talk to someone, ask for advice, get signposted to services? We have a helpline that you can call. Our Helpline Adviser can provide a listening ear, answer any question they are able to or point you in the right direction of the support you need. You can call the helpline on 0151 331 5444.
Carer's guide
You can find more in-depth information about caring in our comprehensive carer's guide.
Useful tips
