Being a carer can be really challenging at times, but it can be extra hard if something unexpected happens, either to you or the person you are caring for. What happens if their health condition deteriorates? What happens if you are unwell yourself and unable to care? Or you have no one else who can support you.
Planning ahead can help you manage these changes by being prepared and knowing what to do and, if necessary, who to ask for help.
If you have an Emergency Plan in place, you and the person you care for will find it easier to get the extra support you need quickly. You’ll get help not only with the crisis or emergency but also in helping you to carry on going to work (if you are in employment), volunteering, meet with your friends, look after your own health and emotional wellbeing.
The plan works best if it involves everyone who would normally support you and your family, and we can help with this.
Having a plan in place can reduce the worry for you, the person you care for, and your family. We can help you make a plan and form your support network.
When you are ready to write your Emergency Plan, contact our Customer Services on 0800 197 5544. And we will be able to connect you with one of our wellbeing advisors in your area.
Carers Emergency Card
The Carers Emergency Card identifies you as a carer should you be caught up in an emergency. Should you be unable to contact the person you care for, your emergency card holds your key contacts. There is space on the back of the card for up to three contacts. Having these contacts written directly on the back of the card means that anyone trying to arrange support for the person you care for can do so quickly and efficiently.
Who can have a card?
Anyone who considers themselves to be a carer is entitled to receive a Carers Emergency Card. You can download the form and return it to us, Carers Emergency Planning.
What information should I include?
We recommend that you only provide your contacts' first name and telephone number to protect their confidentiality. We also recommend that you speak to those people whom you plan to nominate on the card to check that they agree to this before adding their names. If you don't have anyone to write on the back of the card, don't worry, you can leave it blank. If someone finds the card in your possession, it will still identify you as a carer.
The card already includes Warwickshire County Council's telephone number, where they can get advice on the best course of action to help support the person you care for while you are away.
