The Carer’s Handbook (Third Edition) – a carer’s review

The Carer’s Handbook (Third Edition) by Jane Matthews

A book review by East Sussex carer, Chris Raeburn.

I have read this book and can thoroughly recommend it. As a carer for over 50 years, looking after our son with severe Learning Difficulties and at some time caring for elderly relatives, I found it to be a very helpful and supportive book.

It is 200 pages long and covers a great many subjects borne out of the writer’s experiences caring for her mother and two uncles over the last 20 years.

There are 19 chapters, each one explaining and giving valuable information regarding what it takes to be a carer. Subjects covered include how to find your way through the care maze, working with the professionals and money matters. There are also sections on looking after yourself as a carer and how it affects relationships.

Finally, there is an extensive list of support organisations and suggestions for further reading

The writer acknowledges that every caring episode is different and that the book is based substantially on her experience. However, it is clearly the result of a great deal of research and discussions with other carers.

My only reservation, and this is no criticism of the writer, is that the role of a carer changes with every change in legislation and budgets. I note that this is the third edition and fully expect that there will have to be further revisions as the years go by.

Get your copy of The Carer’s Handbook

Order The Carer’s Handbook via Amazon Smile (which allows you to donate to Care for the Carers at the same time, at no cost to you), or ask your local library for a copy.

About the book reviewer, Chris:

Find out more about Chris’s story – he features as one of the East Sussex carers who took part in our Carers’ Words, Carers’ Lives project within a collection of short films about carers:

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