CARERS in Warwickshire are being urged to sign up for an emergency support service over Christmas.
Warwickshire County Council (WCC) is highlighting its Carers Response Emergency Support Service (CRESS) to some 60,000 carers who will be caring for a friend or a loved one over the festive season.
The free service, provided by Carers Trust Heart of England and funded by Warwickshire County Council, gives carers a chance to take a break from their responsibilities by ensuring their loved one is looked after in the meantime and accompanying them to any medical appointments, or significant events.
Carers Trust Heart of England CEO Sonja Woodhouse said: “Many carers tell us that, due to their caring commitments, they feel unable to attend GP or hospital appointments and often lose contact with wider family and friends, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. The CRESS team are able to support carers to ensure that their health and wellbeing needs are met and offers peace of mind that the person you care for will be looked after if you aren’t able to.”
WCC leader Izzi Seccombe added: “For many the opportunity to take a break from their caring responsibility is a welcomed relief, particularly at this time of year when demands on time and health can be heightened. We currently have over 200 carers registered with the CRESS across the county. We would encourage anyone who is looking after a loved one to sign up for this support, by registering with the Carer Wellbeing Service now and having an emergency plan in place should the unexpected happen.”
Once a carer has been in touch, support staff from the service will arrange a visit to complete an emergency support plan both for them and the person they are responsible for.
In an emergency, the team will contact any people named in the plan to ensure the person who requires care is looked after. If they are unavailable, CRESS provides a qualified care support worker to look after the person for up to 72 hours.
Email [email protected] or call 02476 258816 for more information.
