As some unpaid carers aged 16+ can now receive the COVID-19 vaccine we appreciate that you may have questions and concerns. We have some information to share about the vaccine and roll out to unpaid carers.
This Young Carers Action Day (Tuesday 16th March 2021) we want to continue helping protect young carers' futures - the theme of the day. We are encouraging young carers to recognise skills they've developed because of caring that can help them in work or education, skills such as resilience, time management and empathy. We're also letting young carers and their families know we are there to provide information, guidance and support, including workshops and activities to offer a break from caring or chance to learn or develop skills.
The census is coming – it’s a survey of UK households that happens every 10 years and provides an insight into the population. The responses are used to help make decisions about services such as health and social care and we're encouraging everyone who supports or provides care to a family member or someone who has a physical or learning disability, a long-term or life-limiting illness, mental health conditions, or is elderly, to identify themselves on their census form.
We have set up some relaxed coffee break style sessions for unpaid carers to join in with online via Zoom so they can have a chat with other carers over a drink and need not feel alone. New dates have been added for April 2021.
Hertfordshire County Council have offered their guidance on care home visits from the perspective of both carers and care homes.
We put the spotlight on unpaid family and friend carers and caring on Carers Rights Day (26th November 2020) and held a range of events online to give carers the chance to find out about their rights and financial support, take part in an art workshop, and even lobby MPs and representatives from Hertfordshire County Council and the NHS for improved services and assistance.
Unpaid carers that receive Carer’s Allowance will continue to be paid the Allowance if they have a temporary break in their caring role due to either them or the person they care for self-isolating or being infected with coronavirus. Plus emotional support will also count towards as part of the 35 hours of care a week requirement.
With the current coronavirus lockdown and Carers Rights Day approaching (Thursday 26th November 2020) we are reaching out to unpaid carers to ensure they are identified, supported and aware of their rights.
