Carers Week – Putting carers on the map

Are you caring for another person?

If you are, it can feel difficult to take time to look after and care for yourself, but there is help and support out there.

This week is Carers’ Week, with the theme ‘Putting carers on the map’. Data from the 2021 Census shows there are 82,172 carers in Nottinghamshire, and 24,346 in Nottingham city.

A carer is anyone who is providing any kind of unpaid support or care to someone who is unwell or disabled.

Lucy Anderson, Deputy Director of Mental Health Commissioning said: “Caring for someone else can affect your mental health and make it harder for you to stay well.

“Sometimes the pressure of caring for someone else can build up until it feels like you can no longer cope. It is so important to try and look after yourself.

“Caring for someone with mental health problems can be extremely stressful and emotionally draining. It can be isolating and negatively impact on your own mental health.

“This Carers’ Week we want to remind carers that mental health help and support is available here in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. Whether you as a carer need support in a crisis or simply need someone to talk to.”

• The Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Crisis Line is open 24-hours-a-day, seven days week, to people of all ages. If you’re in a mental health crisis, you can call the crisis line anytime of the day or night and speak with a local health worker who will help you get the right support. Access the Crisis Line on 0808 196 3779.
• Talking Therapies is a free, confidential NHS service designed to help with common mental health issues such as stress and depression. It is open to anyone aged 18 or over, and who is registered with a GP. However, a GP referral is not necessary as you can self-refer. Contact Talking Therapies on 0333 188 1060.
• Nottinghamshire Crisis Sanctuaries have a team of intervention workers who are trained in mental health support and are supportive listeners. They can provide support to help you stay safe, offer information and guidance, and signpost individuals to specialist local services. Contact Crisis Sanctuaries on 0330 822 4100.
•  The NHS Every Mind Matters website is full of tips and advice to help lift your mood or ease anxiety. Visit www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/