Adult Services
(if you are aged 18+ and looking after someone who is aged 18+)
The Department of Adult Services provides a range of support for carers, including:
There are also a number of local organisations which offer advocacy and support for carers.
How to apply for services
If you are caring for someone who already receives community care services from the council, then the social worker will also arrange for an assessment of your needs.
If the person you are caring for is not known to the council and isn't currently receiving services, contact the Central Duty Team to request an assessment of their needs and of your needs as a carer.
Once a referral is made, we will do an assessment to decide whether or not you (and the person you care for) are eligible to receive services. We use Department of Health guidance 'Fair Access to Care Services' to work out eligibility.
For further information, contact the carers support team, or download and complete the carers self assessment and grant form (.pdf, 226kb)
Children and Young Peoples Services
(including parent carers who look after a child or a young person under 18, and young carers)
Young carers workers provide support to children and young people caring for a relative, through support groups and befriending. They also visit schools and colleges to talk to pupils and teachers about the needs of young carers. Contact them direct for further information advice.
If you are a young carer, or a parent carer of a child or young person under 18, make a referral through the Children in Need Duty Team.
Useful links
Centre needs volunteers!
The brand new, purpose built Carers Centre is due to open in Hindley in Spring 2010.
Do you want to meet new people, learn new skills, gain useful work and life experience while having fun and keeping busy? Whatever skills or experience you have there is something you you can do. Training will be given.
If you want to take the step to make a positive difference then please contact: Elaine Burgoyne at the Carers Support Team on telephone number 01942 705983 or email e.burgoyne@wigan.gov.uk
Dignity in Care
The Dignity in Care campaign was launched in November 2006 with the aim of stimulating a national debate around dignity in care and creating a care system where there is zero tolerance of abuse and disrespect of adults.
A Dignity Action Day is taking place on 25th February 2010. For more details, including the ways in which you can get involved, visit the Dignity in Care website: Dignity in Care (External link)
