November 21st: Carers Rights Day - Recognising Your Rights

“You can’t pour from an empty cup.” It’s a phrase we often hear, and it couldn’t be more relevant for carers. Caring for someone you love is deeply rewarding, but it also comes with significant challenges. Prioritising your own well-being isn’t selfish — it’s essential.

While my focus here is on dementia carers, these insights can benefit all unpaid carers navigating the demands of caregiving.

Understanding the Value of Carers

The work of unpaid carers saves the government billions each year—a contribution that often goes unnoticed. Yet, carers deserve recognition, support, and resources to help them sustain their role while maintaining their health and well-being.

Your Right to an Assessment

Under the Care Act 2014, dementia carers (and all unpaid carers) have the right to request an assessment from their local authority. This carer’s assessment evaluates your needs and circumstances to identify the support required to continue your caregiving role effectively and sustainably.

You don’t need to live with the person you’re caring for, nor be their sole carer, to request this assessment. The outcome may open doors to invaluable resources, such as:

• Access to advice and information

• Training or educational programs

• Financial support

• Equipment or home adaptations

• Peer support groups

Given the progressive nature of dementia, regular reassessments can ensure ongoing access to the help you need. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness—it’s a step towards preserving your own well-being while continuing to care for your loved one.

Diverse Experiences of Caregiving

While the term “carer” may not resonate with everyone, it is used here for clarity. However, we acknowledge and respect the varied language people use to describe their roles and relationships.

Seek Support in Your Community

Local resources can be a lifeline. Contact your local social services department to request an assessment and explore the options available in your area. Don’t hesitate to ask for help—it’s there for you.

Resources for Carers

Here are some trusted national and local organisations offering guidance, support, and community for carers, particularly those caring for individuals with dementia:

• Dementia Carers Count: A wealth of resources, advice, and support is available at dementiacarers.org.uk.

• Together in Dementia Everyday (TIDE): Find peer networks and practical advice at tide.uk.net.

• Dementia UK: Access specialist support, Admiral Nurse helpline, virtual clinics, and guidance at dementiauk.org.

• Rare Dementia Support: For those affected by less common forms of dementia, visit raredementiasupport.org.

• Alzheimer’s Society alzheimers.org.uk advice helpline and local services for those affected by dementia.

• Devon Carers: Local carers in Devon can find tailored services and assistance at devoncarers.org.uk.

You Are Not Alone

Being a carer can feel isolating at times, but support is available. Recognising your rights and prioritising your own needs are vital steps in sustaining both yourself and your loved one. Reach out, connect with others, and give yourself the grace and care you deserve. Reassessments can ensure help grows with you, please don’t wait till you’re running on empty.

Come and join Devon Carers for their Free Information and Advice Fair on Thursday 21st November in Exeter at Exeter Library, Castle St, Exeter EX4 3PQ, 10am to 4pm

Talk to them about: self-referring for Health and Wellbeing Checks (Carers Assessments); Carer Skills Workshops; Peer Support; Carer Friendly Devon; Carer Friendly Employers; Hospital Services; Carers Break Fund and signing up to their latest magazine

Refreshments will be available

There will also be a number of other organisations in the Rougemont Room to chat to for information about their services.

Organisations will include:

More to follow…

Jo Earlam, who cares for her husband John, and I look forward to welcoming you on behalf of the Exeter Dementia Action Alliance.

“You matter. You’re doing the best you can, but remember—you don’t have to do it alone.”

I’d like to share my blog from Carer’s Week earlier this year, as its message may resonate with you.

https://www.theexeterdaily.co.uk/news/local-news-health-beauty/dementia-activist-praises-carers-and-tells-them-‘you-matter’

I am a Dementia Consultant & Advocate, Founder & Lead of Exeter Dementia Action Alliance and Author of ‘United Caring For Our Loved Ones Living with Dementia’.

I am also proudly on the Peer Review team for the Memory Services National Accreditation Programme (MSNAP) a volunteer on the Carers Advisory Panel (CAP) for Dementia Carers Count.