Since January 2006, we have employed two Support Workers to focus on issues surrounding Older Carers. Their primary aim is to listen to the needs of the carer, and to help them receive the support they need to carry out their role as a Carer. Carers have often spent so much time and energy on the needs of the person they care for, that they can be in danger of neglecting their own needs—both physically and emotionally.

So…

Are you over 60 and caring for someone with a learning disability?

Are you living in the borough of Croydon?

Do you sometimes find it hard to cope?

We can visit you at home, at a time to suit you, to offer independent advice on issues such as:

• Direct Payments
• Carers Assessments
• Benefits and other money matters

Getting together with other carers over a cup of coffee gives people the chance to share their experiences with others in the same situation, and these informal gatherings often include the opportunity to listen to and question a speaker about a particular issue.

Outings and lunches out are also arranged regularly, and feedback from these “networking opportunities” is very positive.

The Service also now undertakes Carers Assessments on behalf of Social Services.

For further information about the Older Carers Support Service, please contact Delma Jones or Tanya Fitzgerald at the main office – 020 8662 9201.