Help for the person you are caring for

You know the person you care for and their needs, so your involvement in decisions about their treatment and care is very important.

You will be involved in these decisions and be given the information you need, unless the person you care for disagrees.

Make sure people are aware of your opinions and wishes about your ability to provide care and support.

Don't be afraid to ask for detailed information and the person's condition and needs, including when they are discharged from hospital.

A Carer Passport in a hospital identifies you as being a carer for one of the hospital's patients.

This will involve you more in the patient's care, and give you further support.

If you are the main carer for someone in hospital, ask the ward if they have a Carer Passport Scheme.

The scheme may allow you to visit outside of normal visiting times, and continue providing care and support e.g. helping with meals.

Carer Passport: Hospitals

Different types of equipment, adaptations and technology could make the home safer, your life easier and provide independence for the person you are caring for.

For more information on making homes more suitable, assistive technology and more see:

Staying independent in your home

Financial support for making changes in the home

The person you're caring for may be able to get a grant towards the cost of making changes to their home.

This is called a 'Disabled Facilities Grant'.

Disabled Facilities Grant

Where to get help

• AskSARA
  Online tool to help with finding equipment for the home to help with physical and mental health, carrying out tasks around the home and getting out and about for older and disabled adults and children. 
• The Living Better Lives Resource Centre

If you both decide that moving out of their home is more appropriate, there are options to chose from. See:

Care homes and housing

Independent living (Housing Plus)

Housing Services' Housing Plus Service brings you options for independent living.

They offer a range of modern, safe and friendly bungalows and apartments across South Tyneside for older people. They are linked to a 24 hour warden call service.

South Tyneside Council Housing Services: Independent living (Housing Plus)

Check on your wellbeing

Think about the below questions:

• Do you need help with managing home repairs, safety and security?
• Do you feel you need advice or assistance in adapting the home to make life easier due to a disability?
• Do you worry about leaving the person you care for when you go out or when you are out together?

If you answered yes to any of the questions above:

• Age Concern Tyneside South (ACTS) can provide home support, a handy person and advice on falls prevention. Call them on 0191 456 6903

If the person you care for has severe mobility problems, some dentists in South Tyneside will visit their home and provide dental treatment.

There are lots of organisations and national charities that can help you understand the condition of the person you care for, and provide support to you to help you care well. See:

Care services for adults