Myth Busting – Myths Vs Facts of being an Unpaid Carer
Myths Vs Facts of Being an Unpaid Carer
Unpaid Carers provide essential support to millions of people in the UK. They are the backbone of our caring system, but they often go unsung and unrecognised.
We want to support in recognising Carers within our communities and have put together some common Myths Vs Facts to support you in identifying as a Carer and understanding the support which is available to you.
There are many myths and misconceptions about being an unpaid Carer. These myths can make it difficult for Carers to get the support they need.
Here are some of the most common myths about unpaid Carers:
Myth
If I register as a Carer other services will become involved
Fact
Other services will not become involved unless there is a need for them to be. If there is a need for them to, this will be discussed with you before doing so.
Myth
I am in receipt of Carers allowance therefore I cannot register as the service is for Carers who are unpaid
Fact
If you are in receipt of Carers allowance, you can still register with Gloucestershire Carers Hub for free information, advice and support.
Myth
I do not receive Carers Allowance therefore I am not a Carer
Fact
You do not need to be in receipt of Carers allowance, you can still register with Gloucestershire Carers Hub for free information, advice and support.
Myth
I do not live with the person I support
Fact
You do not have to live with the person you support to be a Carer
Myth
I support someone but other family members do as well so therefore I am not a sole Carer
Fact
Everyone who is supporting that individual can register with us.
Myth
I work and support someone, I do not spend enough hours supporting someone to access support.
Fact
There is no minimum number of hours you need to support someone for to register.
Myth
I am not related to the person I support.
Fact
You do not need to be related to register, it could be a friend or neighbour who you support.
Myth
I am supporting someone in the short term so I do not qualify for support.
Fact
It doesn’t matter how long you are required to support someone for. You can still register for Carer services for support.
Myth
I am only classed as a Carer if the things I help with are physical, like assisting someone with a physical disability?
Fact
You are a Carer if you provide emotional support to someone or carry out tasks to assist them with their daily life.
Myth
If I register as a Carer I won’t be able to stay employed or continue studying and college or university?
Fact
Registering as a Carer doesn’t affect you in your working life or when studying it just means you can access the support you need.
Myth
All Carers choose to support someone.
Fact
We understand that caring is not always a choice and that individual circumstances can mean it feels like a duty.
Myth
Carers are all older people
Fact
Carers can be any age, supporting children, family members or friends with a physical disability, mental health condition or addiction.
Myth
There isn’t any support for unpaid Carers in my area
Fact
We provide a wide range of support services for unpaid Carers who are supporting someone who lives in Gloucestershire.
Myth
A Carer is a paid worker who supports someone
Fact
Many people provide unpaid care and support to individuals in their lives. You are a Carer if you provide support for someone whether it is a family member, friend or neighbour.
We hope that you found our Myths Vs Facts of being an Unpaid Carer useful. If you are a Carer, it is important to know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you.
Here are some tips for getting support as an unpaid carer:
- Register with Gloucestershire Carers Hub for free support, information and more.
- Talk to your GP and make sure they are aware you are providing support to someone.
- Find out about the benefits you may be entitled to.
- Join a Carer’s support group or come along to one of our Carer Cafes.
- Take some time for yourself.
Being an unpaid Carer can be a challenging role. By getting the support you need, you can make sure that you are able to support someone else and still take care of yourself.
Registration
To register with the Carers Hub visit: Self Referral – Gloucestershire Carers Hub or call 0300 111 9000