Carers need caring for too – and that is why Hull City Council and its partners are highlighting support available to those who care for others.
During Carers Week 2019, carers are being urged to access support ranging from financial assistance, money off at the city’s leisure attractions and travel concessions.
Councillor Gwen Lunn, portfolio holder for adult services and public health, said: “Often people care for loved ones, but might not be identifying themselves as a carer. Carers Week provides a good chance to highlight the support that is available to them.
“We know there are more than 5 million carers across the country all making a huge difference, and we want to ensure carers are also supported.”
Carers may be entitled to financial assistance such as Carer’s Allowance or Carer’s Credit, as well as concessions on travel and at places such as cinemas, museums and tourist attractions which offer free or reduced entry fees if attending with a person they care for.
Carers can visit gov.uk to find out what support they qualify for.
The Carer Card identifies carers and is used to notify emergency services that someone they are responsible for needs support.
It also enables discounted access to local health and wellbeing services, shops and businesses. See a list of local venues offering discounts here.
Carer Jane Read-Lewis said: “I didn’t know about this service originally and I had very limited knowledge on what services were out there. Once you’re in their systems, it is much easier to find out this information, and get much more support, which helps. It’s one of the best choices I have ever made.”
“If I were giving advice to other carers, I’d say if you’re anything like me – stubborn and claiming that you don’t need any help – you should contact the Carers Information and Support Service soon.”
To get a Carer Card or for information and support, contact the Carers Information and Support Service by emailing chcp.carersinfo@nhs.uk, calling 01482 222220, texting CARERS to 61825 or visiting the Carers Centre at Calvert Medical Centre in Calvert Lane, Hull.
