Maria cares full-time for her mum who has Dementia. Since she was referred to Carers First in 2022, she's been able to receive the help and support needed in her caring role. Her story of giving up her job to care for someone in her life is one that many carers can relate to.
Initially, there was no care package in place to support Maria, she was very isolated, and her own mental health was very poor. She had given up work and moved in with her mum to care for her full-time.
Maria was on the verge of looking at residential care for her mum, however through support and assessment tools, Maria now has a direct payment in place through the local authority which provides 12 hours a week support. Maria joined the carer support groups, gained knowledge through guest speakers and direct 1-1 support from a carer support adviser.
Maria was referred to other services, had a health check and support was put in place to ensure her own health and wellbeing was improved to support her in maintaining her caring role.
She has been supported to access groups and events for her mum, breaks for herself and gained some of her identity back, she now dances weekly and attends outings with friends by utilising the package of care and support on offer through the core contract commissioned by Southend City Council.
Through the dancing group Maria joined, she took part in a charity dance show raising money for Carers First Southend with an 80's themed 6-minute routine.
Maria said, "I wanted to give something back for all the support I had received, my mum would have been in a care home by now if it wasn't for the team at Carers First.”
If you are a carer and can relate to Maria's story, Carers First is here to support you. We provide personalised advice and support to help you thrive in your role. Get in touch today to learn more.
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