There is a wealth of information on NHS website about carers and caring. If you want some help from your local support group please contact Kingston Carers Network on 0203 031 2751.
Kingston Mental Health Carer's Forum - charitable organisation in Chessington which offers advice, support and training to those who care for someone with a Mental Health problem (membership free). Tel 07983 063578 (24-hour voicemail) website: www.kmhcf.org.uk email: info@kmhcf.org.uk.
Do you provide care or support for someone who suffers from a mental health difficulty (PDF, 1.3MB)
If so, do join us at Kingston Mental Health Carers’ Forum a community of unpaid carers with loved ones who are struggling.
Below are some links into the site that you may find useful.
Initial information for people who have care and support needs, their carers, and people who are planning for their future care needs.
Helplines, needs assessments, Advocacy and reporting abuse.
Home adaptations, help at home from a carer, social care you can get for free and housing.
Carer's assessments, support from local councils, respite care and help for young carers.
Advice on challenging behaviour, moving and lifting people and medicines.
Services, support and tips if you care for someone under 21, and moving to adult social services.
Money and Legal
Help claiming benefits, looking after your bank balance and understanding the legal issues of caring.
Information on how to pay for care and support, and where you can get help with costs.
Information on Gov.uk about Carer's allowance, Carer's credit, Universal Credit and Pension Credit along with a benefits calculator and a way to check the benefits and financial support you can get.
There may be a time when you need to make decisions for the person you care for because they're unable to do so. This section has information on power of attorney and the mental capacity act.