Does someone rely on you? You are a carer if you provide help and support, unpaid, to a family member, friend or neighbour who would otherwise not be able to manage. You may need support for yourself to manage your role as a carer and it is important you also look after your own health and wellbeing. There is a range of services and organisations that can help. The council wants to support all carers even if you are only doing an hour or two a week. It knows that you could be making all the difference to the person you are helping. That’s why it wants to make sure all carers get the information and advice they need. For more information, see page 17 or go to www.hertsdirect.org/carers
Day care centres Many people can feel lonely or isolated without an opportunity to fill their days with meaningful activities. Research has shown that one way to alleviate loneliness and promote wellbeing and independence is to provide regular social contact and a focus for activities. Day care centres give people the chance to have a change to their routine, meet new people, take up an activity or receive specialist services such as chiropody or hairdressing. There is a wide variety of centres around the county, catering for older people, people with mental health conditions, learning disabilities and dementia. You may be able to arrange transport to and from centres via Health and Community Services, the Royal Voluntary Service or Age UK. Centres can be as important for carers as those attending as they allow for a regular break from caring.
Attendance may be free, although transport and meals must usually be paid for. To find out more about what is available visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/directory and search for ‘day centres’.
Meals on Wheels If you are eligible, Hertfordshire County Council can provide meals delivered to your home. Referrals for meals on wheels are made through the Customer Services Centre on 0300 123 4042. Meals are provided by Hertfordshire Independent Living Service (formerly Hertfordshire Community Meals), a not-forprofit social enterprise. The standard menu includes a choice of five main courses per day and a selection of hot and cold desserts. A wide range of specialist meals for clients who would like Kosher, Halal, vegetarian, Asian or Caribbean/West Indian food is also available. Tel: 0330 200 0103 Email: info@hertsindependentliving.org Web: www.hertsindependentliving.org A number of commercial companies can also provide this service. Go to www.hertfordshire.gov.uk and search for ‘meals on wheels’.
Visit www.carechoices.co.uk for further assistance with your search for care
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