Published 18th April 2024
English weather seems to always be a little… well, unpredictable. But our thoughts are probably turning to ways of enjoying what we hope will be more summery days. This may mean getting some time away or making the most of more day-to-day summer activities.
When we are looking after someone it can be harder to get some time out, on our own or with the person we care for. But support is available to help you. Here some of the ways you can get help to make the most of the summer months.
Getting a break
Norfolk Millennium Trust for Carers are just one of the organisations you can find out about in our Carer’s Directory. They can help unpaid carers who live in Norfolk including with:
- a holiday, short break or outing to help relieve the pressures of caring.
- leisure activities for wellbeing, such as an activity class or a gym membership.
- Items/equipment to support a personal hobby or pastime.
- And more…
So, do take a look at the ways they may be able to support you.
Another way to get some time out, is Caring Together’s Norfolk Befriending Service. This matches volunteers with carers to give regular companionship. The support can also help you to make the most of activities in your community, or provide practical support such as dog walking, collecting prescriptions or help with shopping or gardening. You can see more at www.caringtogether.org/befriending
And you may have seen about the Carers’ Breaks we, at Carers Matter Norfolk, may be able to help you with. Do take a look to see more about these.
Having time away
As a carer, getting time away can bring practical or financial challenges. There are options available to help you.
- If you are caring for someone with Dementia, a supported holiday may be beneficial to both you and the person you’re caring for. Their Support Fund may also be of interest – this helps people who are unable to fund a break on their own. Take a look at www.dementiaadventure.org/holidays/
- Whether you are looking for a break by the coast, or in a city, Carefree offer vacant hotel spaces for carers to make use of. You can find out more and see what is available at www.carefreespace.org
- For carers of someone with a life limiting condition After Umbrage can help you to take a free break. See more about the four-day breaks they offer in self-catering cottages at www.afterumbrage.org.uk
- If the person you are caring for has a disability Revitalise offer respite holidays for disabled people and their carers. Their rooms are fully equipped to the needs of a wide range of disabilities, with expert staff and nurses there to support you. See more at www.revitalise.org.uk/respite-holidays
- For those of us caring for someone who is living with living with deafblindness, Deafblind have a self-catering caravan at Hopton-on-Sea, Norfolk. This can be available at heavily discounted rates. See details at www.deafblind.org.uk/getsupport/holidays
If you are in need of more support over the coming months, do please get in touch with us.