Although caring for a person you are close to has many positives and can be rewarding, it can also be a lot to take on. It is important that you look after your own physical and mental wellbeing, as caring can be tiring and stressful. When you’re feeling run down or exhausted, it can be even harder to undertake your caring responsibilities.
For breaks from your caring duties, you may want to have a look at our page on Respite Care in Surrey.
In Surrey, around 10% of the population are carers, meaning many local people are going through similar circumstances. This page will look at the organisations and support groups that are in place to help.
Please take a look at Age Space’s full Guide to Care for the Carer, for more information on taking care of yourself emotionally and financially, whilst caring for somebody.
A Carer's Assessment
A carer’s assessment is the council’s way of working out how to support you in your role as a carer. In Surrey, this is carried out via an online self-assessment tool, which looks into the impact caring responsibilities have on your life.
Some carers will be eligible for special support from the council through paid services, whilst all carers will be directed to information, advice, specialist charities and support groups.
Find Carer Support Groups in Surrey
Support groups allow you to meet with other carers that are in similar situations, who understand what you are going through. These can be incredibly beneficial to carers, as they let your own needs and feelings be recognised and understood.
Action for Carers Surrey
Action for Carers run regular carer support groups across Surrey in:
- Elmbridge
- Epsom & Elwell
- Guildford
- Mole Valley
- Redhill
- Reigate & Banstead
- Spelthorne
- Surrey Heath
- Tandridge
- Waverley
- Woking
Most groups are open to all carers, including family and friends, but there are also specialist groups, such as ones designed for carers looking after somebody with mental health issues.
You can find listings for all the support groups that Action for Carers run on their Events page, which you can filter by type, location and intended audience.
To attend a group, you will first need to register your details with Action for Carers, which is free, quick and easy.
Action for Carers will also be able to signpost you to support groups outside of their organisation that provide support for specific conditions, such as Dementia Cafés or Parkinson’s support.
For more information on Action for Carers’ services, you can visit the website or get in touch using the details provided below.
- Telephone: 0303 040 1234
- Email: [email protected]
- Visit Website
Alzheimer's Society Carer Support
The Alzheimer’s Society provide specialised advice, information, advocacy and training to those caring for someone with Dementia. They offer a range of support to carers through: telephone calls, face-to-face meetings, local carers meetings, support groups and workshops. Search the website for local support by entering your postcode and filtering by ‘support in the community’.
For more information about local services, please find the contact details for the Alzheimer’s Society office in Surrey below.
- Telephone: 0333 150 3456
- Email: [email protected]
- Visit Website
