With the colder winter months now upon us, there is a need to take special care of yourself and the person you care for
If you look after a relative, friend or neighbour, we would like to encourage you to focus on your wellbeing, improve your physical health and maintain social connections. This winter there is more need than ever for you to look after yourself and the person you care for. Colds, flu and being able to stay warm at home can all affect your ability to stay well. You can register with us for support and to get information that can help you in your caring role. Find out more about being a carer.
Be protected
Consider boosting your immunity with the flu and Covid-19 vaccine. Adult carers are prioritised to receive their winter vaccines. This year, it is important that we protect ourselves and others against the flu. It is also advisable to attend, when invited, for your COVID-19 Booster jab. If you would like further information on winter vaccines, find out more or get in touch with us. In addition, carers can save a letter to their mobile or tablet or print off the letter from the Department of Health and Social Care entitling them to priority access at vaccination centres, especially if there are long queues. You can download the letter here.
Be healthy
As a carer, it is really important that you take time for yourself, to look after your own health and wellbeing. One way of doing this is to make sure you get the opportunity to relax and unwind. Maybe you need some time away from your caring role to get your hair cut, do a hobby, see friends or to just enjoy some ‘me time’. Take a look at our What’s On calendar that includes many activities, carer support groups, workshops and wellbeing sessions for carers. Carers who would like to attend any activity can apply to have respite and replacement care paid for,* please get in touch with us.
Be prepared
Have you considered planning to cover unexpected events? The East Sussex Carers Card identifies you as a carer, and that someone depends on you in an emergency. It also gives you the option to connect to a back-up plan for replacement care should you need it. Find out more about the free Carers Card here, it’s easy to apply on our website.
You may be able to receive financial support to keep you well and warm, as well as financial entitlements or a grant as a carer. Contact us to find out more.
Keeping warm and well – identifying vulnerable people at risk from living in a cold home
Living in a cold home during winter can be harmful to health and wellbeing. The East Sussex Warm Home Check service offers anyone struggling to keep warm at home advice and help to access the support available. You can access or refer the person you care for to the service online, and there’s plenty of advice about staying warm and information on the Priority Service Register. Alternatively text WARM to 80011 or call 0800 4647307.
Saving energy and fuel
With rising fuel prices, Carers UK have tips on saving energy and details of discount schemes and certain benefits that carers may be eligible for, including Winter Fuel payments and Cold Weather payments. Find out more or get in touch with us.
Are you aware of the range of services on offer to you as a carer?
To make receiving information easy and all in one place for you, we have a professional team who can help and support you in your caring role. Contacting our friendly team is the first step in getting ideas and guidance to suit your situation. We recognise that one size does not fit all, which is why having a chat with our team will help you understand what is available to you. Find out more about how we can help and please get in touch. We are here for all carers.
We also have free digital resources available for carers that includes e-learning, information and interactive guides. Find out more here.
* Thank you to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sports and the Pears Foundation via Community Match Challenge. Photo: Association of Carers.