CARERS across Wokingham borough may be going without support and respite care.
In a bid to remedy the situation, Wokingham Borough Council is calling on residents who look after a friend or family member to come forward so that they can be linked into a support network.
The council said that caring can mean anything from housework to washing and dressing a person, or preparing meals.
It acknowledges that this support can be tiring and it wants to raise awareness of the support services available in Wokingham borough.
The council said that this could be by putting carers in touch with others or organisations that provide support, helping to arrange time out or, in some cases, practical assistance.
The council have a carer assessment in place which encourages people to identify what kind of support is needed and how this can be achieved.
This may include making sure carers are receiving all the benefits they are entitled to as well as providing information on short breaks, and practical and emotional support.
They are also able to provide information on what support is available to help people get back into work and leisure activities.
To sign up, the council has an assessment form. Once completed and return, an appointment can be arranged to ensure that the appropriate help can be given.
Cllr Charles Margetts, executive member for health, wellbeing and adult services, said: “Carers play a vital role in helping support their vulnerable loved ones. We want to ensure that all our carers around the borough are receiving all the support from us that they need.
“We also support a wide variety of fun activities across the borough for carers to come with their friends and families that they support and we would encourage them to find out more as there is something for everyone”.
To find out more visit wokingham.gov.uk and search support and social groups for carers.
The council also supports the Carer Outreach Programme and Wokingham Crossroad who offer a wealth of support and information for carers across the borough.
A quarterly Dementia Care Advisory Newsletter is also available from the council which provide very useful information that you can sign up to via the council website at cutt.ly/Tei3uij
