Carer Support and Advice
Who cares for the carer? It is normal for a wife, husband, perhaps a member of the family or even an adolescent, to want to look after a loved one personally who suddenly, through accident or illness, is unable to manage their life for themselves. In the short term it is inevitably a situation that can be coped with and life temporarily adjusted to accommodate any necessary care. Caring for the long-term is completely different.
Many long-term carers undertake the responsibility as a matter of course. It is normal to want to care for someone who is close to you but, for many, they have no formal training, they may still be at work themselves and the circumstances will require them to do, just on their own, what used to be shared by others. It can be very hard on all concerned.
The Centre welcomes carers and clients alike. Every Multiple Sclerosis National Therapy Centre (MSNTC) member provides an area for relaxation, provides refreshments and that most important of facilities - ‘a place to chat’. Many carers can become isolated and lonely and even depressed, feeling that they are the only ones who have to cope with a particular problem. Caring for someone on your own can be overwhelming but you would be surprised how many others have similar problems.
Whilst a client is at the Centre, perhaps receiving treatment or a supportive therapy, they are looked after by both the administration team and the trained volunteers. The environment is safe, clients are monitored and above all made to feel welcome and carers are advised to use this time to consider themselves.
We all feel different when the sun is shining and everyone is welcome to use the canal-side balcony at the Centre, weather permitting, to sit and relax; read a book, watch the ducks, or just to be quiet and have a little ‘me time’. Carers are also welcome to take advantage of any of the treatment or therapies the Centre offers its clients with an illness; perhaps enjoying a massage or a meditation session?
If a carer has a more serious problem with coping, the Centre works with various organisations that can help with advice and give needed physical and mental support. Although the administration team cannot offer direct advice themselves, although they all have ‘a good ear’, they can offer suggestions and support a carer in arranging any consultations or appointments that may help. Please do not hesitate ask a member of the administration team if, as a carer, you are finding things difficult. Remember you are not alone.
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