Doncaster Council

First Steps for a Carer

When you become a carer for the first time, your life can change quickly and dramatically. You may have to face new challenges - and this section is intended to help you with those first few days and weeks as a new carer.

It can't answer every question you may have but, hopefully, it can point you in the right direction and ensure that the first steps you take are the right ones. 

1. Define yourself as a carer - Many new carers aren't always sure if their specific circumstances qualify them as a carer and sometimes don't view themselves as carers. 

Based on the definition from the Department of Health's Carer's website: "A carer is not a care-worker or anyone paid to provide care as part of a contract of employment. Carers are people who voluntarily look after a relative or friend who needs support because of age, physical or learning disability or illness, including mental illness."

2. Remember that you are not alone - According to estimates, there are almost six million carers in the UK - and that's just the people who are officially recognised. That's approximately 1 in 10 of the population. It's easy to feel alone when you first become a carer and though your particular circumstances may well be unique, there will be many people going through similar things and their experience might well be useful as you adapt to your new caring role.

3. Approach Doncaster Council - You may be entitled to certain benefits and services — directly from the Government and Council or from a wide variety of support groups. But you have to ask for them. Financial support is there to help you — and could make your new caring role a lot easier to cope with. You should also consider having a carer's assessment. 

4. Talk to someone - There are thousands of support groups for all manner of illnesses and disabilities, as well as for carers themselves. Some local, some regional, some national. Each group will have as members people who are going through — or have gone through — a situation similar yours. Their experience can be invaluable. There's no better way of finding out about your new caring role than from someone who's been there. 

5. Look after yourself - To be a successful carer, you need to look after yourself as well as the person you're caring for. Speak to your GP if necessary. Link up with a local support group. Make time for yourself.