HEALTH & WELLBEING SUPPORT
Being a carer can significantly impact a person's physical, emotional, and mental health. This may be due to a range of factors, including the physical demands of caring, the lack of meaningful breaks, and not being able to prioritise their own health needs.
Informing your GP
Why it is important to talk to your GP
Caring can have a huge impact on your health and wellbeing, so it’s useful for your GP to know if you are carer so they can take into account any additional pressures that may be affecting your physical and mental health.
Your GP will also be able to provide you with useful information, support and advice. For example, they can refer you to your local wellbeing partnership or help you understand what you may be entitled to, for example, a free health check or flu jab.
What should I tell my GP?
You should tell your GP that you are a carer as soon as possible. They can then record this on your medical records and signpost you to services that can provide support.
Taking a break
As a carer, it can be difficult to take a break from your caring responsibilities and out your own needs first. However, taking a break can be important to many carers and give you the opportunity to have some time to yourself.
What respite options are available?
There are several options available for respite, including:
· residential or nursing care – where the person you care for has stays in a residential or nursing home to allow you to take a break
· care in your own home – gives you an opportunity to have a break from your caring role, whether you want to go shopping, meet up with friends, or have some time for yourself
· day care service – where the person you care for after goes to a day centre or takes part in activities away from home allowing you a break from caring
To find out how to access respite, please visit our Practical Support page.
Other support
Flu jabs
If you are the main carer for an elderly or disabled person, and are in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, you are entitled to a free flu jab. For more information, please visit the gov.im website. www.gov.im/flu.