What are carer services?
Caring for someone with cancer can be a rewarding yet challenging experience. There are a range of services available to support you emotionally, physically and financially, to ensure your health and wellbeing.
Please note that many cancer support services are also available to carers, family and friends; it can be worth making an enquiry to find out.
Read more about caring for someone with cancer
Who is a carer?
You are a carer, or caregiver, if you provide ongoing unpaid care and support to a person who needs this assistance because of a disease such as cancer, a disability, mental illness or because they are ageing. You may be a partner, family member, child, friend or neighbour.
You might not see yourself as a carer, but as someone simply helping out a person in need. You may feel that caring is part of your relationship with the person affected, or you may feel pressured to be a carer out of a sense of duty.
Becoming a carer can be sudden or it may be a gradual process. You may provide care for a short time or over months or years. Care may be needed for a few hours a week or on a 24-hour basis, and the level of care you provide may change over time.
Questions to ask about this service
When looking at a service it is important to ask questions about how the service works before you decide to engage with them. Below is a list of questions you might like to ask when enquiring about a service.
Am I eligible?
Some services have specific criteria that a person must meet before they are able to use a service, for example location, means testing or a specific cancer type. It is important to know if you are eligible to access a service right from the start.
How much will this cost me?
Some services are free, and some come at a cost. At a time when people should be focused on their treatment and recovery, the cost of cancer can be a source of stress and worry for many. It’s a good idea to ask about the fees attached to a service and if there are any subsidies or benefits you might be eligible for before committing to the service. It’s important to know that you are within your rights to ask about the cost of a service or treatment before agreeing to take part. For more information you can visit cancer and your finances.
Is there a wait time?
Sometimes demand for a service is high which can cause wait times. You might find it helpful to ask if there are any wait times for the services you are looking at, especially if you require support as soon as possible.
What services do you offer?
Some organisations provide a range of services for people affected by cancer, their family, friends and carers. It is a good idea to ask about exactly what services are available to you.
More information
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