Looking after your own wellbeing as a parent carer

Mum and happy young boy making sounds with sticks, sitting on a sofa

Looking after your own wellbeing as a parent carer

You are the most important person in your child’s life, championing their wellbeing needs every day. For this to be sustainable, it’s really important to find ways to look after your own wellbeing needs too.

We know it's not always easy, so we’ve written this guide to provide some information, resources and guidance to help you find ways to focus on your own wellbeing and happiness, while caring for your child. It will cover different aspects of your wellbeing that might need extra attention. There's also a personal wellbeing plan that you can complete alongside this guide to help you document and action some changes that you think are likely to benefit you. This guide will be useful for anyone with caring responsibilities for a disabled child.

Find out if your local Carers Support Service has a Carers Wellbeing Fund

Consider contacting your local Carers Support Service to see if they have a Carers Wellbeing Fund. The Wellbeing Fund is area dependent. If available, it is a grant of up to £150-300 (depending on location), for something that benefits your own wellbeing. Some Carers Support Services offer cost of living grants to support families instead.

Visit the Carers Trust website to find your local Carers Support Service and find out more about any local grants that may be available.

P.A.U.S.E.

A reminder for parent/carers to take a moment for themselves.

PAUSE infographic, P, Protect your energy, Set boundaries, learn to say “no” without guilt, A, Ask for help, Reach out, whether it’s a GP, support group, or friend, U, Understand your needs, Check in with yourself, what do you need today?, S, Slow down and breathe, Mindfulness, even for a minute, makes a difference, E, Engage in joy, Do one thing each week just for you, big or small.
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