Why should I signpost carers to Caring with Confidence?

Are you a professional working with unpaid carers or do you come into contact with carers during the course of your job?

Perhaps you are:

• a GP?
• a social worker?
• a benefits advisor?
• or work in the charity sector?

You may come across people that are helped by an unpaid carer?

If this sounds like you, by signposting carers to Caring with Confidence you can help them:

• build on their strengths as a carer
• give them the opportunity to share experiences and learn from others in similar situations
• give them useful information, ideas and tips about looking after someone
• help them decide what they might like to change about their caring role

Caring with Confidence is aimed at unpaid carers in England aged 18 and over and can help to empower and build confidence.

What are the benefits to you and the carer?

• You can signpost carers you come into contact with to useful, relevant additional information and know-how to develop their skills and knowledge framework
• Better informed and more confident carers are more likely to be able to identify and use the services available to them
• Carers who look after their own health and well-being are more likely to be able to continue caring for longer, therefore those they care for may be less likely to need long-term professional care
• Group sessions are run by local providers who have the experience and knowledge of working with other local organisations including PCTs, charities, Local Authorities and support groups, bringing together all the services available to carers
• individual carers report practical benefits as a result of being involved in Caring with Confidence, such as relaxation techniques, awareness of additional resources and entitlements and moving into new education and training opportunities