Working alongside caring can be difficult but it does ensure you have a life outside of your caring responsibilities and some financial stability. Many carers feel they should give up work because the demands of caring are so great, however, support is available.
By answering a few questions, AskSARA will provide personalised advice about equipment for health, assistive technology and daily living ideas. This service is free and there is no sign-up required.
Most working carers have the following rights:
You may not be covered by these rights if you are self-employed, on a short term contract or employed through an agency.
Make sure your employer is aware of your situation. They may agree to make reasonable changes to your work pattern, such as working part-time, job sharing, working term-time only or working compressed hours (fitting five day’s work into four longer days) and other support.
Reading Mencap offers information, advice and carers assessments in Reading. 21 Alexandra Road, Reading RG1 5PE Tel: 0118 966 2518 Email: carers@readingmencap.org.uk
Age UK Reading offers information, advice and carers assessments in Reading. Walford Hall, Carey Street, Reading RG17JS Tel: 07716 418 941 Email: carers@ageukreading.org.uk
Age UK Berkshire offers information and advice in West Berkshire. Unit 119 Broad Street Mall, Reading RG1 7QA Tel: 0118 959 4242 Email: info@ageukberkshire.org.uk
Communicare offers information, advice and, in Reading, carers assessments. 233 Kings Road, Reading RG1 4LS Tel: 0118 926 3941 Email: office@communicare.org.uk
New Directions can offer you tailored support to help with your journey into work. Support includes help to:
This is a holistic service working with other local organisations to meet your needs. For more information or to book an appointment with an advisor call: 07976 154184 or email: newdirections@reading.gov.uk