Looking After Your Health

It is easy to neglect your own health as a carer.Carers UK found that 51% of carers experience physical health problems - such as back problems through moving and lifting the person they care for or mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.

What is your greatest resource as a carer? YOU!

Does your GP know that you are a carer? Explain about your caring situation because only then will the GP be able to help. When you tell your doctor ask for it to be made clear on your notes and on the notes of the person you care for that you are a carer. The idea for registering carers on the computer was started many years ago but it now also forms part of the GP's contract.

Why make yourself known as a carer? Because...

Your GP surgery is often a useful first point of contact for information about support available
They will be able to refer you for further help - for example, having a Carers Assessment
Caring can affect your health and it is important that you look after your health
The Practice staff will be able to include you in decisions about the person you care for and provide help and support
Some Practices have a Carers Support Group or a Carers Champion and work hard to improve information and support for carers

Leisure Card

The Leisure Card gives discounts on lots of leisure activities - a good way to save money while keeping fit. There are three levels of Leisure Card available:

Level 1: up to 70% discount for anyone claiming benefits such as Income Support
Level 2: up to 50% discount for full-time students and people who are over 60
Level 3: up to 20% discount for anyone who is a regular user of leisure facilities.

Contact 01204 334455 for more details

For more information on health matters and health services contact NHS Direct 0845 46 47 or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk