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Who cares? We care...
Are you looking after a family member or loved one at home? Don't cope alone, help is at hand ...
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Supporting one another: Judy May, of Carers' Centre Hull, offers a warm welcome to people who look after family and loved ones |
What do Tony Blair, 10 Downing Street and the manager from Carers' Centre Hull have in common?
In December, the PM and his wife hosted a day that manager Judy May attended, putting Hull's population of carers onto the political agenda.
The invitation was issued to recognise Judy's contribution to the Carers' Centre in Prospect Street.
"I really enjoyed the visit. It was exciting to walk through that famous front door and see what was inside," she said.
"I met Tony Blair only briefly, but had a good talk with Cherie. She seemed genuinely interested in the work of Carers' Centre Hull, the people it helps, and the situations they face.
"Cherie also expressed interest in Hull's bicentenary commemorations of William Wilberforce's achievement of banning slavery.
"If she comes to Hull for the commemorative events this year, hopefully she will make time to call into the centre."
January can be one of the hardest months of the year for carers. It's a time when the responsibility of looking after a family member or loved one may feel heavier after what can be a stressful, albeit enjoyable time at Christmas.
Carers' Centre Hull becomes extra busy during January.
"There are more than 22,000 carers in Hull, and they find January a tough time of year," Judy added.
"The cold weather and long nights can make people - who are already under strain - feel much worse. It doesn't apply to everyone of course, but for some, it can be isolating, especially for carers confined to the house for much of the day.
"I would urge this group of people not to cope on their own, but to come to the centre and talk it through."
The number of carers in Hull is constantly changing. As people grow older or suffer injury or illness, there is a need for someone to 'be there' for them.
According to figures from the charity Carers UK, more than 8,500 Hull people will take on some form of caring responsibilities for the first time this year.
The centre, which is supported by funding from Hull City Council, provides confidential one-to-one emotional support for carers.
Social opportunities from Christmas parties to shopping trips are offered to let carers meet like-minded people who understand what it's like to be in that situation.
Respite breaks from a few hours to a week can be arranged, safe in the knowledge that another responsible carer will cover their normal duties while they are away.
Cllr Stephen Baker, who has responsibility for adult social care in the city, said: "Carers do a magnificent job, often in tough personal circumstances. The funding provided by Hull City Council to Carers' Centre Hull is a way of supporting people from all walks of life who look after others."
Top tips for carers ...
- Remember to take care of your own needs. Make sure you eat and sleep well. Don't lose sight of your own health.
- Your emotional well-being is important, so go along to the Carers' Centre to meet people in similar circumstances. You'll soon make new friends.
- Take a break. You might be able to go out for a coffee or a walk around the block or a park, and do some exercise if you can. This will make you feel refreshed.
- Remember to arrange respite care so you can have a longer rest to restore your energy levels.
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Carers! Don't forget your benefit entitlement:
for more information contact Carers' Centre Hull on 225078,
call Carers UK on 0845 8087777
or visit www.direct.gov.uk/CaringForSomeone * |
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