New support handbook for unpaid carers

A new handbook for unpaid carers has been launched in Cardiff and the Vale, covering some of the changes they may face during and after caring.

The Caring through change handbook was launched at the Cardiff and Vale Regional Unpaid Carers Assembly last week. The event focused on how carers cope with changes such as a new diagnosis, sharing care at home, moving someone into residential care and bereavement.

The guide also includes advice on stress and anxiety, anticipatory grief and adjusting to life after caring.

It was produced by Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff Council, Vale of Glamorgan Council, Compassionate Cymru and Age Cymru, with unpaid carers helping to shape the content.

Councillor Norma Mackie of Cardiff Council said: ‘Unpaid carers make an enormous contribution to the lives of the people they care for and to our communities, but we know that caring circumstances can change, sometimes very suddenly. Caring through change has been created to provide practical information, reassurance and clear routes to support at the times when carers may need it most. I hope this handbook helps carers to feel better informed and, importantly, reminds them that support is available and they do not have to navigate these changes alone.’

Dr Claire Beynon, executive director of public health of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board added: ‘Supporting the health and wellbeing of unpaid carers is incredibly important.

‘Caring can be hugely rewarding, but changes in a loved one’s health, care needs or circumstances can also have a significant impact on the carer themselves. This resource is a great example of what we can achieve by working together across health and local government, bringing trusted information and support into one accessible place for carers across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.’

The handbook can be downloaded here.

Photo: Jack Finnigan

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