How to juggle work and caring for someone with cancer?

 Hello megan1278713f87 

My name is Liz and I'm one of the Information and Support Advisers at Macmillan.

I am so sorry to hear about your Mum.  This is such a sad situation and I can appreciate that being with her during these months is important to you, whilst balancing the need to work.   During these tough emotional times, I feel it's a consideration as well, the value of working to you, in terms of your emotional well being, for example socialising and sharing experiences with work colleagues.  

You do have rights at work as a carer which could include a flexible working arrangement.  You may also find this link talking about Working whilst caring for someone helpful  In addition you may ask your employer for Carers leave: anyone who is legally classed as an employee can take time off to help a dependant who needs long-term care. The law is the Carer's Leave Act 2023. It came into effect on 6 April 2024.  

These are options that you may like to sit down and chat through with your employer.  Should you need further support either before or after that meeting, please feel you can come back to  us,  or our Cancer Care Map may help to find you local support, on lots of levels, for example you may have a Macmillan Citizens Advice near you, or should you wish to have a financial type conversation with a cancer professional, you may search for that service locally.  In addition, you have the option of talking to our Money Team, by phone or webchat.  They work Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm, they will explore any benefits that either you or your Mum may claim.   Sometimes exploring these options can really help at times like this. 

 megan1278713f87  you mention not wanting to leave your Mum, and of course that is understandable.  May I ask, have you spoken with Mum's GP about a level of support you can get for her, and indeed yourself?  Options you may like to look into are  a Needs Assessment for Mum, and perhaps a Carers Assessment for you, your assessment may bring help and well being support, to help you support Mum.  Your Mum's GP will help you with this, especially as you feel "she may not have super long left".   I am also wondering if Mum has been offered the support of a Palliative Care Nurse?  If not, you may explore with Mums GP for a Macmillan Community Nurse to call.  Mum may not need nursing support at the moment, but may in the future, so asking a GP now is a good idea.  Just for your information, we also have Cancer Information Nurses here on the Support Line.  They don't have anyone's medical records (as they are not linked to the NHS) but, should you ever wish to speak with a nurse, they are available on 0808 808 0000 every day from 8am to 8pm - you are welcome to call if you have a medical query whilst supporting Mum. 

Another type of support you may like to look into is a Companion via Marie Curie.  Companion volunteers focus on what’s important to you and those close to you. They provide the emotional and practical support you want – over the phone, at home, or in hospital.

 megan1278713f87  I am mindful that I have given you a lot of different types of information, and I don't wish to overwhelm you so I will pause there:  you can always come back to us for support.

I wish you and your mum all the very best.

Take care