Having a break or taking regular time to yourself can help you to cope better with your caring role. A break can also allow you to catch up on everyday things like getting some sleep, enjoying some leisure time or visiting friends and family. You may be eligible to receive funding to help you take a break.
If you are an adult or parent carer, for more information contact Durham County Carers Support on 0300 005 1213, or email admin@dccarers.org
Young carers
Carer Breaks are also available to young carers (aged 5-18) and young adult carers (aged 16-24). For more information on how you can access a carer break contact Family Action: Young Carers Services on 0191 383 2520 or email durhamyoungcarers@family-action.org.uk
Breaks or respite care for the person you care for
If you are looking for breaks or respite care for the person you care for, Locate – care and support in County Durham provides details of care and support information and services.
Direct Payments
If the person you care for is entitled to financial help to meet their care and support needs, they can choose to receive money from Durham County Council to buy services that meet those needs. This is called a direct payment and enables you to choose who provides your care, and how and when you receive it. This could be personal care in the home, help to take part in activities or to help you attend clubs or groups.
Durham County Council will help you to make sure that the services you buy with the direct payments are safe, legal and meet your care and support needs. For more information visit Direct Payments.
Carers UK also have some useful information on how direct payments could help you in your role as a carer. For more information visit Carers UK: Direct Payments.
