People who provide unpaid care in the London Borough of Merton are to benefit from new support services that will be provided by the charity Carers First.
There are 16,000 such carers in Merton, and over five million nationally, with many facing challenges brought on by their caring role. This can include financial worries, difficulties accessing services, problems with employment, and their own health and wellbeing.
Carers First, who were founded by carers thirty years ago, successfully secured the contract for both the adult and young carer support services following a thorough tendering process by Merton Council. The charity runs services across London in Hackney, Haringey and Waltham Forest, and further afield nationally in Medway, Essex and Lincolnshire. Support is also offered online and carers are involved in all aspects of their work.
Alison Taylor, Chief Executive of Carers First, said:
“Carers First is delighted to be supporting carers in Merton. We want to raise awareness of the incredible role of carers and deliver programmes designed by carers on health, wellbeing, practical help and financial issues whilst supporting carers to balance their caring role with time for themselves.
“We understand that caring can be hard, but believe getting the right help shouldn’t be. Carers often don’t have time to look after their health or wellbeing, which has an impact on their job or studies. Many give up work or miss school. Some do not identify as carers, which means they don’t get the support they are entitled to. That’s why Carers First is here.”
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Visit our online support section where we have provided advice and guidance on a range of relevant topics to help you in your caring role.