Support for Carers FAQ
Where can I go for information and advice about the carer's allowance, or other benefit entitlements?
Paveways Independent Advice Line (for disabled people and carers) - tel. 01942 519909.
Wigan Independent Advice Centre (Do you have problems with your benefits? Do you find filling in forms too complicated? Do you find that asking for information is too difficult? Would you like some help?) - tel. 01942 324851
Age Concern (for older carers 50+) - tel. 01942 241972.
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What is a carer's assessment?
In short, it's your opportunity to tell us about the things that could make caring easier for you. It's your opportunity as a carer to discuss how your caring role affects you.
You can have a separate assessment as a carer, or have the assessment as part of the assessment the person you care for.
After the assessment, the social worker may be able to provide services, or suggest: other agencies that can give you a break, additional emotional support from other carers or people who understand what it's like to be a carer, help with household tasks and your caring responsibilities, benefits advice, and ideas for activities for the person you care for.
To get a carer's assessment, contact the Central Duty Team - tel. 01942 828777.
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Where can I go to find out about respite services?
Wigan and Leigh Carers Helpline can provide information about local respite services - tel. 01942 606086.
Wigan and Leigh Crossroads can also provide: short term breaks for carers in the home, night care services, personal care, emotional and practical support, a carers drop-in centre, advice and counselling, advocacy, and put you in touch with other care services - tel. 01744 612542.
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Are there any local groups which support carers or provide support and guidance?
There are many local groups which support carers, ranging from emotional support to organised trips and activities for carers. Contact the Wigan and Leigh Carers Helpline for details - tel. 01942 606086.
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What is the Carers Grant?
It's part of the government's strategy for carers, set out in Caring About Carers (published in February 1999). It's money managed by local councils, which can be used to provide breaks or services to help carers in their caring role. There are various schemes in the borough funded by the Carers Grant - tel. 01942 705983.
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As a carer, how can I get involved in planning events and services for carers in the borough?
The council's carers team is always happy to involve carers in planning events, such as Carers Week and Carers Rights Day. They also help carers have their say in Carers Strategy Group Meetings - tel. 01942 828746.
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