DIGITAL tools and resources are available to support people who provide unpaid care to family and friends have been shown to Members of Parliament.

Justin Madders, MP for Ellesmere Port and Neston, attended an event hosted by @CarersUK and @SmartEnergyGB to find out about the digital tools and resources available to support people who provide unpaid care to family and friends.

Former Shadow Health Minister Mr Madders said: “ It was great to speak with carers at the Parliamentary event about the challenges they are facing and the support that is available. I can appreciate that it isn’t always easy and not everyone is receiving the support they need.”

  • Carers UK’s website includes a large repository of practical support and financial information to support carers. It includes helpful guides, tools and resources about caring.
  • Smart meters are a great way of supporting unpaid carers to give the person they care for back some of their independence, whilst also helping them manage their energy bills. Smart Energy GB has more information about the benefits of smart meters for unpaid carers.
  • Carers UK’s Helpline service is available Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm on 0808 808 7777 (including bank holidays). Alternatively, carers can contact Carers UK’s Helpline service by emailing advice@carersuk.org at any time.
  • ‘Care for a Cuppa’ sessions help carers to access peer-to-peer support online and to share their experiences with other carers.
  • Carers Connect is an online forum which enables Carers UK members to interact with each other and talk about anything related to caring in an understanding environment.
  • Jointly is an innovative app developed by Carers UK that is designed to make caring easier, less stressful and more organised by making communication and coordination between those who share the care as easy as a text message.
  • ‘Being heard’ – Carers UK’s self-advocacy guide for unpaid carers – is packed with new information on carers’ rights, as well as how to speak up and look after your wellbeing.
  • Digital Resource for Carers gives carers free access to a range of essential online resources to help people manage care more effectively.
  • ‘Looking after someone’ guide provides an overview of everything carers need to know, from their rights to practical tips and financial support options.

Find more information go to https://www.carersuk.org/media/qzbgubr5/segb_parliament_print.pdf