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Carers' support services and NHS support

A young woman supporting elderly man in a wheelchair.
As well as, or instead of, getting help from the council, there are other local and national support services that you may be able to access. 

You can find out what support the council can give to carers here.
 

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Reading and West Berkshire Carers Partnership

The Reading and West Berkshire Carers Partnership provide a Carers Hub for family carers in Reading and West Berkshire. The partnership members Age UK Berkshire and CommuniCare work with the carers of residents in West Berkshire. 

The partnership provides information and advice to unpaid carers to help support their physical and emotional wellbeing. They are able to advise on financial help (such as grants, benefits and discounts) and rights in employment. They also signpost to other relevant services.

To access support from the Reading and West Berkshire Carers Partnership, you can:

You can find a list of local support groups in our Icon for pdf information for carers booklet [2MB] .
 

 

Carers emergency card and plan

A 'carers emergency card' is a small photo ID card carers can use to let other people know that they have a dependant person at home in need of help, should you become unwell or involved in an accident.

To find out more and how to apply for a card, contact The Reading and West Berkshire Carers Partnership:

The Reading and West Berkshire Carers Partnership can also help you develop a Carers Emergency Plan. Carers UK provide examples of what to consider as part of this plan.
 

 

Crossroads Care Oxfordshire and West Berkshire

Crossroads offer support for carers, including respite care, cover for the cared for and a rapid response service. Read more about what Crossroads provide on our Directory.

You can contact Crossroads by:

You can find a bigger list of support organisations in our Icon for pdf information for carers booklet [2MB] .
 

 

Help from the NHS

You can find information on respite breaks, carer's assessments, benefits, and young carers on the NHS website.

The NHS also have practical tips if you care for someone.

 

Registering with your GP

It's a good idea to register as a carer with your GP surgery. Just contact your surgery to let them know. This helps your surgery to be aware of your caring responsibilities and the potential impact on your own health. They can then also take account of your needs as a carer when trying to arrange appointment times that fit in with your caring responsibilities.

The NHS have useful guidance to help you get the most out of your appointment with a checklist of what to ask your GP.

Your GP surgery may refer you to a social prescriber, who could provide you with information, advice and signposting.

 

Caring for a person going into hospital

Royal Berkshire Hospital have an Information for Carers and Carer Passport leaflet. It explains what you can expect and how you can work with hospital staff to get the best for the person you care for.

The Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust also have carer's support webpages. They also have information about accessibility and reasonable adjustments in hospital.

 

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

PALS at the Royal Berkshire Hospital provide free, informal, confidential help and advice for patients, carers and their families.

Visit the PALS webpage on the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust website.
 

 

Getting someone to help you speak up (advocacy)

An advocate is someone who can support you to speak up for yourself, or speak up for you. They can help you say what you want, secure your rights and get services you need. 

For more information, visit our visit our 'getting someone to help you speak up' page.

 

 

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