In this guide, we’ve included a comprehensive list of the different resources available for dementia caregivers. This includes financial support, where to seek advice, emotional support, training and education, and more.
Who to ask about dementia carer resources?
If you feel you would like more access to resources to support you in your role as a carer, the following guides provide some great information on where to access additional support.
However, you could also approach your GP, who will act as a sign post for support such as a carer’s assessment, counselling, and respite care. Alternatively, you can contact your local council to enquire about a carer’s assessment and request further information on the financial resources available to you.
Understanding dementia and the diagnosis
Dementia is a progressive illness, so the symptoms of the condition will gradually worsen over time. Diagnosis is key to providing early intervention, ensuring that the person with dementia is given the support they need as soon as possible.
The following resources provide some more information on understanding dementia as a carer:
Dementia Guide for Carers
This guide provides statistics about dementia, common symptoms, how to get a diagnosis, treatments and more.
Financial Dementia Caregiver Resources
Many dementia carers will reduce their working hours in order to have more time to provide care to a family member. Some will eventually stop working altogether in order to become a full-time caregiver to the person with dementia. Of course, this will have a huge impact on your finances, but there are resources out there to help you with that.
Carer’s Allowance
This guide to Carer’s Allowance for Dementia Caregivers will give you a full breakdown on whether you might be eligible for the benefit, how to apply, how much you’ll get, and any other questions you might have regarding carer’s allowance in general.
Benefits for Dementia Carers
Some dementia caregivers may also be eligible for other benefits and payments. Our guide on benefits for dementia carers covers every benefit you might be eligible for, how much they pay, how to apply, and any other frequently asked questions.
Insurance for Dementia Carers
If you are an employed dementia carer – whether self-employed, via an agency, or through direct payments – you should definitely consider carers insurance to cover you in your role. Find out why you might need carers insurance and how it can help you if something goes wrong.
Support for Dementia Caregivers
Being a dementia carer is undoubtedly a challenging and, at times, isolating role to take on. Many carers take on the role in order to care for a family member who has been diagnosed with dementia and can feel unprepared for the challenges that come with it.
The following resources provide various forms of support for dementia caregivers:
Respite for Dementia Carers
A guide to the various forms of respite and replacement care available to dementia carers in the UK, whether you need a break for an afternoon, or to arrange more formal care for a longer duration.
Dementia Support Groups
A full list of the dementia support groups available to dementia carers in the UK, from local support groups to online support forums and international communities.
Counselling for Dementia Carers
If your mental health is struggling as a carer, it’s important not to suffer alone. This guide covers the different counselling and therapy services that might be available to you and how to gain access to them.
Helplines for Dementia Carers
A full list of the various helpline resources for dementia carers, from providing financial advice, talking with healthcare professionals, and emotional support.
Education
If you feel like you could benefit from some additional education in your role as a dementia carer – whether you’re a paid carer or unpaid – these resources are a good place to start.
Training for Dementia Carers
A guide signposting the different training available to dementia carers across the UK, both online and in-person.
Courses for Dementia Carers
Various courses available to dementia carers (paid and unpaid) in the UK in order to better understand the condition, build a network of other carers, and look after your own well-being in your role as a carer.