Support for carers

A carer is a person who is unpaid and looks after or supports someone who needs help with their day-to-day life. This may be because of:

  • their age
  • a long-term illness
  • disability
  • mental health
  • substance misuse
  • additional needs (including parents or guardians of a child with additional needs)

You can have a carers assessment if you are looking after someone without being paid and:

  • the person is over 18
  • you are looking after them because they need help with their day-to-day life due to their age, disability, illness or long term condition

Carers in Bedfordshire support service

Carers in Bedfordshire provides support services for carers in Bedford Borough, providing one-to-one support and practical advice.

Support workers help carers navigate the health and social care system or help deal with a difficult situation at home. The charity provides a programme which includes:

  • peer support groups and activities to bring carers together
  • counselling
  • wellbeing sessions
  • help to cope with hospital admissions
  • grants and benefits advice

Carers in Bedfordshire also runs the Memory Navigation Support Service for people living with memory loss and dementia and their carers. The service provides help, advice and information, support groups and a befriending service as well as a listening ear.

You can also look at our Adult Social Care Community Directory for advice and support when caring for someone. 

Carer grants

You may be able to apply for a carers grant to pay for a break, activity, service or training, to improve your health or wellbeing. The below list provides examples of what you can apply for:

  • day trips and activities
  • stress relieving therapies
  • equipment for the home to help with daily tasks
  • training to help with improving your confidence, skills, knowledge or job prospects

Carers lounge

A friendly, confidential space for carers in the Bedford Hospital and Luton and Dunstable Hospital. Drop in for information, advice, practical and emotional support. Lounges are staffed by support workers and volunteers from Carers in BedfordshireSo if you are visiting the hospitals, please call in for a coffee and a chat! No appointment or referral is needed. 

Carers support groups

Find carers support groups open to all carers of any age and any background, in your local area. They are a great place to meet other carers in a similar situation or chat with one of our experienced support workers.  

There is specific support for young carers:

  • Young carers (4-17 years)
  • Young adult carers (16-25 years)
  • Young and sibling carer support (4-17 years)

Carer information guides

You can find more information about who qualifies for Adult Social Care services and other helpful guides below: