Carers Week 2021 - Stories from carers

Khadijah’s story

My name is Khadijah and I care for my husband who recently had a stroke and is paralysed on his right hand side. My husband was working fulltime before his stroke and he enjoyed working, he had been in the same job for 20 years, it has changed his life. Losing his independence and mobility has really lowered his confidence.

As a result of caring I have had to leave my job and now look after my husband full time, this has had a financial implication. We heard of MECOPP and I reached out for support, we have been supported with income maximisation and help to get more support at home for my husband. As a carer it is important that you get the right support at the beginning of your journey, this could help ease your stress, and knowing there is someone to speak to is invaluable.

Amy’s story

My name is Amy, I have been a carer for my husband for a few years now. My husband was diagnosed with dementia, prostate cancer and other health problems. His health has rapidly declined over the last couple of years and as a result he currently requires support around the clock. This has been very stressful for myself as I take care of him and our children, particularly my daughter who has mental health problems.

As a carer I had little knowledge and information of what support is available out there for someone like me and my family.

My SDS and Brokerage worker from MECOPP has helped me to access information and support, especially in a difficult situation when I was unable to handle a decision for my husband and myself. Having that additional support has helped to build my confidence and try new things outside my caring responsibilities such as going to college to learn new skills. If I had not contacted MECOPP I would not have survived as a carer or mother.

X’s story

I have been carer for my husband for several years now. My husband and I had a fully active life, we worked and travelled to various countries. However, a few years ago he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. I cared for my husband alone, without support. This has left me with physical and mental health difficulties, and stress for my husband as he was also concerned for my wellbeing.

The process of accessing social care help has been difficult and stressful, but having support from my SDS and Brokerage worker has been a great help. My worker helped me and my husband access support and advocate on our behalf whenever a problem/issue arises. My husband now receives support to help him with his personal care and physical health and I have been awarded respite hours which I use to take a break and do things I enjoy. Life still goes on when caring and I have only realised this because we get the support we need.