The range of services and support available for Dorset carers including how to join the carers information service.
Equipment and technology
Equipment and technology can provide reassurance for carers and independence for those they look after. From simple aids to sensor systems, there are many products available to help make life easier.
Carers support groups
Other carers can provide moral support, advice and expertise. A list of carer support groups can be found in our service provider directory.
The Leonardo Trust
The
Leonardo Trust (opens in a new window)
is an independent charity to help people in Dorset who care for a sick or disabled relative or friend, full time, at home. The Trust may be able to help you with:
- funds for a short break
- help in the home including cleaning and gardening
- replacing a broken washing machine or tumble dryer
- funds to help you learn something new
Staying in touch
Computers 4 Carers (opens in a new window) can provide you with a computer if you are a full-time unpaid carer and can train you how to use it. Having a computer can help you to stay in touch with family and friends, do your shopping online, book doctor's appointments and much more.
If you live in Bournemouth or Poole
The
CRISP (opens in a new window) website has information about services available in this area.
Helplines
Some charities have helplines and online forums that can give you advice and support.
Carers UK (opens in a new window) - 0808 808 7777
Alzheimer's Society (opens in a new window) - 0300 222 11 22
Register as a carer to join the Carers Information Service to keep up to date with all the local events, training courses and more. It's quick, easy and free to join.
When you join you will receive a welcome pack that includes:
- information and advice about carers services including local support groups
- the latest copy of Caring Matters, a Dorset-wide magazine for carers
- a carers discount card
You should join with the council responsible for the person you are caring for (even if this is not your local council). The person you are caring for should be aged 18 or over. You can get help as a carer regardless of whether the person you care for gets support from the council or pays for their own care.
For more information about carers services in your area and to join, contact:
Bournemouth and Poole Carers Resource Information and Support Programme (CRISP) - join online or call 01202 458204
Dorset County Council - join online or call Dorset Direct on 01305 221016
The carers card is available if you have joined the carers information service with Bournemouth, Dorset or Poole council.
The scheme offers a range of discounts on goods or services including:
- days out and activities
- travel and holidays
- health and beauty
- sport and fitness
- places to eat and drink
Information about where you can use your card is available on the carers card website and new information is added regularly.
You can also find information about the carers card on
Facebook (opens in a new window).
To get your carers card, join the carers information service.
Bournemouth and Poole Carers Resource Information and Support Programme (CRISP) - join online or call 01202 458204
Dorset County Council - join online or call Dorset Direct on 01305 221016
There is a range of training available that will support you in your caring role as well as equip you with new skills. Subjects include;
- first aid
- dealing with memory loss and dementia
- falls prevention
- safer handling and care skills
- advice on how to manage stress
For training opportunities in your area;
Mental health
The
Recovery Education Centre (opens in a new window) provide free training courses if you are caring for someone with mental health issues. The courses are mainly held out in the community, so you should not have to travel too far to attend.
The Carers in Crisis scheme is available for carers of people who are resident in Bournemouth and Poole.
Carers in Crisis provides a back-up plan to help the person you care for in an emergency. You might need to use this scheme in the event of a sudden illness or an accident, or if you are delayed in getting to the person you care for.
How does Carers in Crisis work?
The Carers in Crisis scheme offers;
- an emergency call centre which you can contact 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
- a card to carry in your purse or wallet showing the telephone number of the emergency call centre and your unique reference number
- an initial meeting to agree what support would be needed in an emergency
In an emergency, call centre staff will take action previously agreed by you. If something unexpected happens to you, another person is able to contact the emergency call centre on your behalf.
How much does it cost?
It is free to join the Carers in Crisis scheme.
There is no charge for support during the first 48 hours. After this, when we assess the situation, we will carry out a financial assessment for the person you care for. This may lead to them being asked to pay towards the cost of any longer term care.
How can I join?
You can join the Carers in Crisis scheme if you have joined the carers information service with your council. You will need to contact the council for the area in which the cared for person lives. If you care for someone who lives in;
- Bournemouth - call the Carers Support Service on 01202 458204
- Poole - contact the Adult Social Care Help Desk on 01202 633902 or email: sshelpdesk@poole.gov.uk
The assessment is an opportunity to discuss with your local council your caring role and what support you may need. You can get help as a carer regardless of whether the person you care for gets support from the council or pays for their own care.
Who can have an assessment?
You do not necessarily have to live with the person you are looking after or be caring full-time to have an assessment.
You can have an assessment whether or not the person you are looking after has had one. A combined assessment of both your needs could be undertaken at the same time if you wish.
What will the assessment cover?
A carers assessment is most beneficial when you are looking to improve your situation or change something. So think about what you would want to achieve or change by undertaking an assessment.
Your assessment will focus on the impact that caring has on you and should cover;
- your caring role and how it affects your life and wellbeing
- your health - physical, mental and emotional issues
- your feelings and choices about caring
- work, study, training and leisure
- relationships, social activities and your goals
- housing
- planning for emergencies - such as the Carers in Crisis scheme
We will offer you advice and guidance and tell you about other services and support that is available. The information you provide will help us assess your eligibility for council services.
We have further information on eligibility criteria for carers.
Getting an assessment
If you feel that a carers assessment would benefit you, contact us:
Bournemouth
Complete an assessment online or contact us on 01202 458204
Dorset
Complete an assessment online or contact us on 01305 221016
Poole
Contact us on 01202 633902 or email sshelpdesk@poole.gov.uk
Advocacy is a way to help people who may not be able to tell others what they want.
An Advocate gets to know your views and wishes and gives you support to tell others what these are.
Family and friends or health and social care staff can help you speak up. But it may be difficult if you have different ideas about what you want.
An independent advocate helps you to:
- express your views and concerns
- access information and services
- explore choices and options
- defend and promote your rights and responsibilities
They speak for you without judging you or giving you their views and opinions.
