What is a carer?
You are a carer if you give any unpaid help and support to someone with cancer who could not manage without your help. This includes a partner, family member, friend or neighbour.
You may not see yourself as a carer. You may think you are just helping out. Recognising you are a carer can be an important step in getting the support you need.
Being a carer for someone can mean?
- Giving emotional support.
- Helping with everyday tasks.
- Driving them to appointments.
- Talking to other people on their behalf, such as health and social care professionals.
- Helping with personal care such as washing and shaving.
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Coping with being a carer
Every caring situation is different. Your responsibilities will depend on what the person needs and what you are able to offer. You may be sharing these responsibilities with family or friends, or you may be the main carer.
Being a carer can be rewarding. But the physical and emotional demands can be difficult. You might have a lot of different feelings, such as sadness, anger, guilt and loneliness.
You may have to balance caring with other things, such as working and other relationships. Getting support and having someone you can talk to about how you feel might help you cope.
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Local Support
Bolton Carer’s Support
If you look after a relative, partner or friend of any age, who needs help due to a physical or mental illness or disability, frailty or an addiction, then you are a carer. For more information and support visit Bolton Carer’s Support below.
Hints and tips on talking to someone affected by cancer:
You may feel unsure about what to say to someone with cancer. We have advice to help you make talking and listening easier and deal with difficulties. Below are some links you may find useful: