Can I ask what help some people are getting from their social work departments and what their experiences are. Personally I feel let down a bit recently I was advised to seek carers respite so I could have a break so I did so via the carers centre. However the social work visited and despite my mum appearing less well and able as the last assessment they said her needs were not high enough. There was no respite placements and all they could offer was an extra visit daily for the week She is palliative with lung cancer and bowel cancer I don’t see how her needs are not high. I am no longer going on holiday as I can’t guarantee her safety so however according to social work you are entitled to four weeks but how can that be if they can’t facilitate it. I guess my issue is what is high needs because she can’t walk far she doesn’t eat well she is incontinent and oxygen dependant at times. Has anyone else experienced this?! Thanks Dionne
Hi Jess2019xx
Some years ago now we had some relatives who managed to get respite care when the husband was looked after at a local cottage hospital - but then the cottage hospital was closed and sold off and somewhat unsuprisingly respite care was harder to find after that.
Sorry to hear about what you are going through, I wonder if it might be worth talking to your MP about this - in the past I have used writetothem and on occasion got some helpful support.
<<hugs>>
Steve
Hi Jess2019xx
I’m Steph and I’m part of the Online Community Team here at Macmillan. Thanks for posting here, although I was sorry to read about everything you’re going through with mum. I hope you will finding it helpful to be able to share in the Community and find support from people who understand.
I can hear how disappointing it has been for you to be told that you’re not eligible for any respite care by social services. It’s really important that you look after your own needs as a carer and that you’re able to access the right support when you need it.
I’d encourage you to give our Support Line a call for some help navigating your options. Our Support Line teams are available 7 days a week, 8am-8pm on freephone 0808 808 00 00, email or live webchat.
If you’d like to find out more before you call, here are some links to information you might find helpful:
I hope you find the support you’re looking for. Please do let us know if you have any questions or need further support with anything at all.
Please do come back to the forums and let us know how you’re getting on. We can be a listening ear whenever you need it.
I hope the Community helps to show you that you don’t have to go through this alone.
Kindest Regards,
