A carer is anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who due to illness, disability or a mental health problem including dementia who cannot cope without their support. In Forth Valley there are Carers’ Centres which are independent charities that deliver a wide range of local support services to meet the needs of carers in their own communities. All Carers’ Centres are able to provide information, advice and emotional support.
Those recently diagnosed with dementia and their family/carer are now offered a Post Diagnostic Support (PDS) course. The Carers’ Centre, working closely with NHS Forth Valley and Alzheimers Scotland, deliver an 8 week programme, three times a year. This covers topics such as:
- What is dementia?
- Power of Attorney
- Handling anxiety
- Delirium
- Living Well at Home (Hints & Tips for Carers)
Both the family/carer and those recently diagnosed with dementia have reported that they feel more confident and informed about the help available to them and feel they benefit from the peer support provided within the group.
To find out more about the courses and other support available for carers contact your local carers centre:
- Stirling Carers Centre: 01786 447003
- Falkirk & Clackmannanshire Carers Centre: 01324 611510
There are also hospital-based Carer Support Workers who provide support for carers whilst they, or the person they care for, is in hospital. The Support Workers listen to carers’ concerns, ensure carers have any information they need and help carers access services, support, training and welfare benefits. To access this service please ask a member of staff to contact Katie Baker on 07545 502405.
