Talk to someone

Caring for someone close to you, whether that’s a family member, friend or a loved one, can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with its challenges.

It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or emotionally drained. You may not realise the impact that caring is having on your health and wellbeing.

Talking to someone can make a big difference. It can give you the space to acknowledge what you’re going through and gain a new perspective on how to manage those emotions.

I always leave feeling lighter, properly listened to and like I have a real plan in place to look after myself…

There are several ways you can access support:

Carers often come to us for help to find the right support for the person they care for. We can also help you understand what your rights are as an unpaid carer, provide a safe space for you to explore your own needs, and offer support and guidance for planning for the future.

Many carers overlook their own needs until they are exhausted. Talking to a Carer Support Worker early on can really help. We also have volunteers available to listen, whether you need regular support or just a one-time chat.

We usually offer six one-to-one support sessions during office hours, and work with you to focus on what you need most in your caring role.

Carer Support Workers are available:

In person
We can arrange a meeting in-person in York at a location that works best for you.

Whether you prefer to meet at your home, at York Carers Centre – which is a calm and safe space, a favourite café, or even a walk in the park, we’re flexible!

We’re here to chat wherever you feel most comfortable discussing your caring role.

On the phone

We can offer support over the phone. We know that holding a conversation can sometimes be challenging due to interruptions or the need for breaks, and that’s completely okay! We’ll adapt our approach so that you can talk to us when it works best for you.

Online

We can support you online in a couple of different ways. You can email us with your request or concern, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. If you prefer, we can arrange a call via MS Teams or Zoom, or we can explore other options, such as using a messaging app that works best for you.

The great thing is that you don’t have to stick to just one method of support – you can mix and match as needed. The flexibility allows you to maintain the support you need, when you need it.

Contact us

If you need support or have a question, we are here to help, please get in touch.

Phone: 01904 715 490

Phone line opening hours:
Monday to Thursday: 9.30am to 4.30pm
Wednesday – advice line: 5pm to 8pm
Friday: 9.30am to 4pm

Email: enquiries@yorkcarerscentre.co.uk

We can link you with a volunteer who can provide up to six sessions or just a one-off listening call. We’ll do our best to match you with someone who understands your situation. Their role is to offer a supportive listening ear, so if you need specific advice or guidance, we’ll refer you to the most appropriate service.

Many carers find it useful to talk to others who are in a similar position and who understand their situation.

Carers often share hints and tips with each other at groups and events. Join a group or contact us to find a way to connect with others.

Activities

Counselling can be beneficial to help with coping strategies and offering a space to talk openly and in-depth, without fear of judgment.

To access our counselling service, you must register with us, please mention that you are interested in carers counselling when you register.

If you are already registered with us and would like counselling around your caring role, please call 01904 715 490 or email enquiries@yorkcarerscentre.co.uk

There are several organisations who provide counselling, either generally, or specifically around your caring role.

Access the counselling resources

As an unpaid carer you can ask for an assessment of your own needs to see if you’re eligible to receive support.

A Carer’s Assessment of Need is NOT an assessment of your abilities as a carer; rather, it focuses on YOUR personal needs and looks at ways to make your caring role more manageable. It’s designed to ensure you receive the right support and resources and can often be an important first step.

If you would like to have a Carers Assessment of Need please request one using the button below.

Find out more

Our Advice Worker and Benefits Adviser can help you in claiming the benefits and allowances you’re entitled to and signpost to support with completing forms.

Many thanks for your time with me today. I feel very listened to, with new insights about our situation, plus lots of practical ideas. I’m very grateful for your help and support.

Contact us

If you need support or have a question, we are here to help, please get in touch.

Phone: 01904 715 490

Phone line opening hours:
Monday to Thursday: 9.30am to 4.30pm
Wednesday – advice line: 5pm to 8pm
Friday: 9.30am to 4pm

Email: enquiries@yorkcarerscentre.co.uk