Information for adult carers

Caregivers ...  You matter.  Your health matters. Your life matters. 

Recognising the impact on you 

Providing care and support for a family member, friend, or neighbour can be both rewarding and exhausting. While it is fulfilling to help others, caregiving can make it hard for you to enjoy other important parts of your life. Over time, this can affect your health and wellbeing.

Whether you are new to caregiving, have been doing it for years, or are facing changes in your role, it is important to seek support as early as possible. This will make your caregiving role more sustainable for both you and the person you are caring for.

Accessing Occupational Therapy for Self-Management 

The Occupational Therapy (OT) pathway is designed to support unpaid carers in managing their own health and wellbeing. This pathway begins with a personal conversation, recognising that each caregiver's situation is unique.

During your initial appointment with the occupational therapist, you may be asked questions like:

• Who are you?
• What matters to you?
• How do you view your caregiving role?
• What challenges are you facing in the activities that matter most to you?

Together, you and the occupational therapist will find ways to overcome these challenges, focusing on your strengths, interests, and values.

Depending on your needs, you may be offered:

• A small group programme to develop your self-management skills
• One-to-one occupational therapy sessions

Get in touch

To join the small group programme, you can self-refer by calling 0300 3690 680 and asking for the “OT group for caregivers.” An occupational therapist will contact you to ensure the programme meets your needs.

You can also talk to any health or social care professional involved in your care or speak with your GP for a referral.

Top tips for Carers 

• Protect time for yourself - Make sure to include moments of rest in your daily routine.
• Encourage independence - Help the person you care for do what they can by themselves, even if it takes longer. This fosters their independence and eases your load.
• Share your experiences - Your insights are valuable. Professionals can learn from your unique knowledge about the person you care for.
• Know your limits - When you feel tired, allow yourself to rest. It is okay to say “no,” “not now,” or “I can help within these limits.”
• Ask for help - Remember, it is not a sign of weakness to accept support. It is a way of recognising that you need care too.

Early intervention matters

Early intervention and self-management are key to sustaining your health and wellbeing. By seeking support early, you can develop the skills needed to navigate your caregiving role with greater ease.

By following these steps and accessing available resources, you can maintain balance in your life while continuing to provide care.

Carer experiences 

Meet Annie and Kari-Ann who have both been engaged in the Occupational Therapy Carers Pathway. 

Hear their stories, and how carer support has benefitted them personally.