News

Know your rights as a carer

Posted on Tuesday 24th November 2020
CarerWheelchair

 

Coronavirus has added to the pressure for a lot of carers this year and many people have found themselves caring for the first time as a result of the pandemic.

This year Carers Rights Day takes place on Thursday 26 November and will raise awareness of carer rights, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise their contribution to society.

Councillor Paul Cockeram, cabinet member for social services said: “Being a carer can be very rewarding but it can affect you physically and emotionally and carers often feel isolated. As a carer of an elderly relative, I know from personal experience how caring for a loved one can be.

“The Community Connectors are always on hand to offer advice and information to carers through various means, including online and via telephone or email and Carers Rights Day helps to raise the awareness of the support that is available.”

A carer is someone of any age who cares for a relative or friend who couldn’t manage without their help. This could be caring for someone who is ill, disabled, has mental ill health, substance misuse problems or needs a bit more help as they get older.

Carers have rights under the Social Services and Wellbeing (Wales) Act 2014 which include:

  • The right to an assessment
  • The right to wellbeing
  • The right to a life outside of caring
  • The right to have their voice heard

For more information on carers rights visit the Welsh Government website.

Newport City Council has a wealth of support and information for carers online including contact details for the Community Connectors team. Visit www.newport.gov.uk/carers for more information.

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