Support for carers
We know that being a carer can feel all-consuming, and often isolating. Which is why we are here to support you.
On this page you will find links, resources and groups that you might find useful. Please speak to any member of the care team if you would like further information or need support.
Practical support
Local authority support
East Sussex County Council (ESCC) Adult Social Care has a legal duty to provide support for carers in East Sussex. Visit their website to find out what is available, including carer's assessments, help with respite, registering an emergency plan and information on managing a person's affairs.
Care for the Carers
Care for the Carers is a local organisation that provides support, advice and guidance available to local carers. They offer a wide range of services to meet different carers’ needs, and can help you to navigate the maze of health and social care systems.
What to expect
Thinking about the end of life can be hard, but knowing what to expect may ease some worries. This booklet from Marie Curie may be helpful in helping you understand what might happen.
Community links
Our Community Links network is made up of over 80 organisations who can offer support to patients and carers. They include social groups and associations, support groups, carers groups and organisations who offer advice and guidance.
Social workers
Our hospice Social Workers have specialist knowledge about the kind of issues that may arise for you and your family and will work with you all to help you prepare and adjust.
24/7 Hospice Line
Our telephone advice service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Other resources
Marie Curie has lots of information on topics including coping with feelings, practical tips on caring, helping to manage symptoms, getting support, and carer's rights:
mariecurie.org.uk/carer
Hospice UK also has lots of good resources on topics such as caring for somone at home, juggling care and work, looking after yourseld, and what to expect when someone is dying:
hospiceuk.org/information-and-support/your-guide-hospice-and-end-life-care/support-carers
Emotional support
Groups
Some of our Living Well groups are open to carers too.
Hub drop in - The Street Café
Tuesdays | 2-4pm
Online relaxation group
Fridays | 2-3pm
Relaxation
Our team of complementary therapists have created some useful guidance on different relaxation techniques. There are audio versions you can download or videos you can follow depending on what you prefer.
Spiritual support
What ever your personal beliefs are, Caroline, our Spiritual Support Lead, is here to support patients, their friends and relatives. Spiritual Support is not just about religion, it is about the things that are important to you.
Counselling
Our hospice Counselling Services can offer counselling support for carers before and after bereavement.
Support for children and young people
Local authority support
East Sussex County Council (ESCC) has a legal duty to provide support for young carers in East Sussex. Visit their website to find out what is available, including carer's assessments, financial support, workshops and activities.
Care for the Carers
A young carer is someone aged under 18 who cares for a friend or family member. Care for the Carers has a service providing support for young carers before they reach crisis point, and to help their physical and mental wellbeing.
Seahorse project
Our Seahorse Project offers short-term bereavement-focused counselling support children aged 6-18 in our catchment area (Seaford, Hailsham, Uckfield, Heathfield, Pevensey and Eastbourne). This can happen before a bereavement if appropriate.
Workbooks
Supporting children when an important person in their life is ill can be difficult. We have developed a workbook to help them explore their thoughts and feelings, and you can download it here.
Did you know?
A gift from you of £25 can create a memory box for families to treasure.
