Caring in Reading June 2018 Where to get information, help and advice to support you in your caring role

Caring in Reading

Getting help as a carer in Reading 3 Reading and West Carers Hub 3 Carers support from social care services & your GP 4/5

Social care for the person you look after 6/7

Help with care and health costs 8/9

Getting a break from caring and carers support groups 10/11 Mental health and emotional wellbeing 12/13

Healthy Lifestyle 13

Carers grants, discounts and offers 14/15

Benefits for Carers and disability benefits 16/17

Help with housing costs and housing grants 18/19 Help with heating costs 20 Information and Advice and the Priority Service Register 21

Accessible holidays and days out 22

Help with travel and travel costs (plus accessible facilities) 23/24

Working and caring 25

Support for young carers 26

Safeguarding vulnerable adults and children safe 27

Supported learning, training and working 28

Learning disability services and Autism Support 29

Sensory needs services 30 Dementia services 30

Power of Attorney 31

End of life care 31 Drug and alcohol support 32 NHS Health Services 33

Useful contacts 34

This publication was correct at the time of going to print. For more copies call 0118 937 3747. 2 Getting help as a carer

Caring can be rewarding but it can also be demanding - physically and mentally. This can have a huge impact on your own health and wellbeing.

It can: .Isolate you from family and friends - .Put you more at risk of injury if you especially if caring makes it difficult need to help someone with walking for you to stay in touch with family or getting out of bed and friends or stay involved in your .Wear you out - especially if you don’t hobbies and interests get a break As a carer it is very important that you .Cause financial difficulties - for are aware of the help available to example if you have to give up work support you so you can continue to care .Make you feel guilty, angry, without putting your own health and frustrated or depressed emotional wellbeing at risk.

You may not see yourself as one, but if you provide care and/or support to a relative or friend who is elderly and frail, physically disabled, has a learning disability, has mental health issues, has a history of substance misuse or has a serious health condition, then you are a carer. The Reading and West Berkshire Carers Hub offers a range of support for carers, to help you look after yourself as well as the loved one you care for. The help available includes:

.Information, advice and support .One to one telephone support How to contact the Carers Hub .Signposting to other organisations Call the Helpdesk on 0118 324 7333. .Carers support groups offering a Our experienced support workers will chance to meet other carers, provide a personalised service to meet activities and outings and guest your individual needs. speakers Email: [email protected] .Free access to local leisure, health and well-being facilities Visit: www.berkshirecarershub.org .‘CarerSmart’ benefits and discounts Facebook.com/reading-and-west- .Free training and caring support Berkshire-carers-hub .Access to Carers breaks @RWB_Carers_Hub .Carers grants to help pay for essential equipment, a break from Reading and West Berkshire Carers Hub caring or to learn new skills provided by the Carers Trust and funded by .Peer support Reading Borough Council, West Berkshire Council, and the West Berkshire Clinical Commissioning Groups

3 Carers support from social care services

If you are the parent/carer for a disabled child, or you provide unpaid care and/or support to a Reading* adult (18 years+), or if you are a young person with caring responsibilities, you may be eligible for Carers support from social care services. Carer’s Assessment Support for Carers All Carers have the right to a free Carer’s Depending on the outcome of your Assessment - even if the person you Carer’s Assessment you may be offered: look after doesn't want help from social .Advice and support to help you care services. manage caring and look after your The Carer's Assessment is an health and/or opportunity to focus on how caring .Information and advice about other affects you and identify the help you organisations and groups supporting need to support you in your caring role carers and/or and ensure your own health and .a Carer’s Personal Budget - if you wellbeing. have eligible support needs. If the person you care for has a social Carer’s Personal Budget (CPB) care assessment or review, you should This is money we can give you to pay for be invited to have a carer's assessment support and services to meet the eligible at the same time. This is often the needs identified by your carer’s simplest way to work out what is best for assessment. How much you get depends the whole family. on your individual needs. You won’t have Adult Carer’s Self-Assessment to pay anything towards your CPB. If you prefer, you can complete a Carer’s To be eligible for a CPB your carer’s Self-Assessment Form - visit assessment must show that caring is: www.reading.gov.uk/carersa or call for a • putting your physical and/or mental paper copy. health at risk or If you need help to complete your self- • preventing you from achieving one or assessment contact the Carers Hub on 0118 more of the following: 324 7333 or [email protected] • meeting your parenting/caring Contacting social care services responsibilities for children .0118 937 3747 if you look after a • looking after your home Reading adult • eating properly .0118 937 3641 if you are the parent/ • keeping in contact with friends carer of a disabled child and family • working, training, learning or The Young Carers Project volunteering supports children and young people • using community facilities/ under 18 who have extra services taking part in leisure responsibilities to help with a disabled activities sibling or parent with support needs - • and having or likely to have a see page 26 significant impact on your wellbeing

4 If you don’t agree with the outcome of Carers Emergency Plan your assessment talk to your social care worker. You can ask us to review Do you worry what might your assessment if your situation happen to the person you care changes. for if you were stuck in traffic, What can I spend my CPB on? involved in an accident, taken ill You can use it for things that will help or otherwise delayed? reduce the stress of caring. Your social Ask your social care worker about care worker will listen to your ideas, putting together an emergency plan or offer information and advice and work speak to the Carer’s Hub. with you to draw up a support plan for Your plan will set out who needs to be approval by our panel. contacted and what needs to be done In the past carers have spent their to ensure the person you care for is personal budget on things like: safe and properly supported. driving lessons to give them more freedom to get out and about Keep your “in case of emergency” contact numbers” in your phone. equipment to make things easier to manage at home - like a tumble dryer to cope with extra laundry or an internet connection to help stay in touch with others sport and leisure activities or Help from your GP complementary therapies to help the carer relax holidays/short breaks from caring to Caring can take a toll on your own make ongoing caring more health and wellbeing so it is especially manageable important to look after yourself. You can’t use your CPB to buy food or It is important to identify yourself as a clothes, to pay utility bills or to buy carer to your GP practice so they are replacement/respite care for the person aware of your situation and can offer you look after (if this is needed it will be extra support if necessary. included in their support plan). Register with your GP as an unpaid carer and ask them about the help they How will you get the money? can offer you. Once your support plan is approved we will transfer the money to you as a Carer’s Direct Payment.

Supporting you by supporting the person you care for For comprehensive advice for carers Social services also take account of visit www.nhs.uk/carers your needs as a carer when deciding or call the Carer’s Direct Helpline how much support to offer the person you care for (see page 6) 0300 123 1053 The person you care for may have to pay for these services (see page 8)

5 Social care for the person you look after

Reading Borough Council provides community based social care services for families with a disabled child and adults who are dependent on others for care and/or support because they are older, have a physical or learning disability, have a visual and/or hearing impairment, a long-term illness, mental health needs or are dependent on drugs and alcohol.

The Children & Young People’s Adult Social Care Services Disabilities Team (CYPDT) Reading Adult Social Care Services CYPDT supports children and young supports adults (18 years+) who live within the Borough of Reading and who, adults (up to 25 years) with: because of their age, a disability or long- .severe or profound physical, learning term health problem (including a mental or sensory disability health problem) are finding it .long-term illness, life threatening increasingly difficult to take care of condition or complex medical needs themselves and/or stay in touch with .severe communication or behavioural family and friends. difficulties What help could I get? .a combination of less severe This depends on your individual disabilities/issues which together circumstances. We will ask you (and/or cause significant stress. the person you care for) to tell to us Their aim is to ensure your child is: about your situation so we can .supported within the family understand your needs and offer the .encouraged to achieve their most appropriate help. This could maximum potential include one or more of the following: .is part of your local community. Short-term/urgent support They also support young people to If the person you care for comes to us in transition to adult social care services. a crisis we will offer some short-term care and support services to keep them Help offered safe until their situation is more stable This is based on the outcome of an and they are in a better position to make assessment and may include help with decisions about their long-term care. meeting personal care needs, equipment There is a charge for any short-term care and adaptations. and support services received. However, Personal Budgets and Direct Payments the person you care for may be entitled may be offered. to financial support from the Council to How to get an CYPDT assessment help towards their care costs. How much 0118 937 3641 - children (0-18 years) help is given is based on the outcome of a financial assessment – see our “Help 0118 937 3747 - young adults (18-25): with Care Costs: Page 8.

*except young people with disabilities Assessments are FREE and available to ALL Reading residents with care and continuing to work with CYPTD. support needs.

6 Information and advice Ongoing Care and Support We may offer advice and tell you about If the initial assessment suggests the local services that could offer the help person you care for has more substantial needed now. You can also find needs we will ask them to complete a information and advice on the Reading more in depth care and support Service Guide - visit assessment to identify their eligible www.reading.gov.uk/servicesguide needs . Information and advice is FREE and We can help them choose and plan the available to all Reading residents. services they want to meet their eligible Preventative Services needs. We may offer services which could help The person you care for will be charged maintain or improve independence and for any ongoing care and support prevent, reduce or delay the need for services they receive. However, they more intensive social care support. may be entitled to financial support from These could include: the Council to help towards their care • Working with family and friends to costs – how much help they get depends help make the most of existing on the outcome of a financial support networks assessment – see “Help with Care Costs: Page 8 • Referring the person you care for to our Reablement Service for a short We can arrange and manage the care period of intensive therapies and and support services for the person you support designed to help them care for or, if they would like more choice rebuild their strength and mobility and control over their care arrangements and regain their independence. we can give them the money we would • Providing alarms, minor adaptions normally contribute towards their care and equipment to help keep the costs and they can make their own person you care for keep safe and arrangements. This is called Direct make it easier for them to carry out Payments. everyday tasks on their own. How to get help? • Helping you and the person you Call Adult Social Care on 0118 937 3747 care for access social and leisure or visit www.reading.gov.uk/care- activities to help you stay in touch assessment with others. For adults with mental health problems: Most preventative services are FREE* Ask your GP or health care worker to and available to ALL Reading residents refer you or call the Common Point of whose initial assessment suggests they Entry Team on 0300 365 0300. would benefit from this help. Adult Social Care Services are not *There is a small weekly fee for community free. However, the person you care alarm services for may be entitled to financial

About Direct Payments A direct payment offers more flexibility and control over who provides care, and how and when services are provided - including the option of employing a Personal Assistant. Ask your social care worker for more details.

7 Help with care costs support from the Council to help towards care costs. Charges for care and support The * limits are set each year by the Department person you care for must pay for: of Health • care and support services provided to help them at home and in the Care home fees community If someone is assessed as having substantial and complex needs that can • care home costs only be met in a care home they may be These charges apply from the date their eligible for financial support from the services start. Council to help towards their care home But they may be entitled to help with fees. their care costs. The help offered is based on the How much help they get depends on: outcome of a financial assessment. • their financial situation and Choosing a care home • the actual cost of the services they If the person you care for needs help need (these are identified by a care with care home fees (now or in the and support assessment using future) they must choose a home that national eligibility criteria) accepts Council rates. We offer a Financial Assessment (a If they choose a more expensive home means test) to work out how much the someone else must pay the extra fees person could afford to pay each week for as long as they live in the home. towards their care. Self-funders Self-funders If the person you care for has savings The person you care for must pay for and capital over the Government’s their care in full if they: Upper limit* (or they refuse a financial .have savings above the assessment) they must pay their own Government’s Upper Capital Limit * or care home fees in full. .refuse a financial assessment Deferred Payments Scheme Self-funders who ask social services to If the person you care for needs to sell arrange and manage their care services their home to pay their care home fees for them will be charged a fee to cover they may be eligible for a Deferred administration costs. Payment Agreement. If agreed, this allows them to delay selling their home This information provides a brief during their lifetime: outline of the Council’s charging policy The Council loans the money to pay for You can find the detailed policy on the care fees and places a legal charge on website: the property. All costs (plus interest) will be recovered when the property is sold. www.reading.gov.uk/carecharges

8 Always seek independent financial advice. NHS funded care Continuing Healthcare If the person you care for has an overriding primary health need they may Independent Financial Advice be eligible for NHS Continuing & Support Options Healthcare. This means that the NHS The Council works with My Care My will cover the cost of: Home to make sure people can .any health and social care services access independent information and provided at home or advice - this includes : .care home fees (including board and .Providing information and advice accommodation). about care and support options NHS funded nursing care .Referrals to regulated financial If the person you care for is assessed as services to help plan funding for care requiring nursing care in a registered The advice My Care My Home provide nursing care home they will be eligible is free to Reading residents. They will for NHS-funded nursing care. But the always explain any charges for person is still responsible for fees services they refer people to. covering board, accommodation and Call 0800 731 8470 or email personal care. [email protected] See NHS Choices (www.nhs.uk)

Help with health costs

You and/or the person you care for may be eligible for help with some health costs. Over 60 Medical Exemptions People over 60 are entitled to free People with certain medical conditions prescriptions and eye tests. are exempt from prescription charges. NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS) Check with your doctor and ask for an FP92A form to apply. People on a low income may be able to get help with prescription, dental costs, Prescription Prepayment eye tests and glasses, travel costs to Certificate (PPC) and from hospital, wigs and fabric If you pay for prescriptions and you need supports. more than 3 items in 3 months, or 14 To apply, complete form HC1 available items in 12 months you could save with from Jobcentre Plus or NHS hospitals or a Prescription Prepayment Certificate. by calling 0300 123 0849. Apply online or call 0300 330 1341

For more information see www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcosts

9 GettingGetting aa breakbreak fromfrom Caringcaring

Regular breaks from caring can benefit both you and the person you care for. The right kind of break, at the right time, can help people who are ill, frail or disabled to carry on living with friends or family in their own communities. The person you care for may not want someone else looking after them but most carers find that once they’ve taken the plunge it doesn’t take long for everyone to adjust to a change in routine and even start looking forward to seeing someone different from time to time. Paying for breaks Supported activity sessions If the need for breaks has been identified The person you care for could go to a through a social care assessment and supported day service, social group or the services agreed are included in the activity session. Personal Budget Support Plan, the cost This gives the person you care for the of this care (including a maximum of 28 opportunity to get out of the house, take nights residential respite) will be covered part in activities and make new friends by the weekly charge . while you take some time for yourself. See www.reading.gov.uk/care charges Shared Lives breaks for more details The Shared Lives Scheme could link the person you care for with a trained carer who can provide care and support while you take a break. This could be in their Crossroads provides home, our home or in the community. support to carers looking after a loved Breaks may be anything from a few one at home. hours each week, overnight or longer. Services include Sitting Service/replacement care replacement care, Some organisations provide trained (including social and emotional support, carers/support workers to sit with the help with personal care, shopping and person you care for a few hours while medication) you do other things. Services are flexible and tailored to Residential respite breaks individual needs. This support is provided through: The person you care for could have a Free time-limited home based short stay in a residential or nursing care . respite enabling carers to go to home so you can have a complete break appointments or take part in from caring. activities, carers groups or training Lots of homes offer residential respite - .Care with a wide range of activities some people like to return regularly to in the local community as well as a one place where they get to know the regular venue staff and routines, but taking a break in an institutional setting doesn’t suit Visit www.readingcrossroads.org or everyone. Call 0118 945 4209

10 Carers Support Groups

Many carers find it useful to join a support group where they have the opportunity to take a break and meet other people in a similar situation.

ACRE Family Support Group 10am -12noon on the first Thursday of Supports black and minority ethnic families the month caring for children (0-25) with additional Call 0118 324 7333 or email needs and disabilities. [email protected] Email [email protected] or Pangbourne Carers Group call 0118 951 0279 Pangbourne Small Village Hall (Station Crossroads Road, Pangbourne RG8 7DY) Support group for carers of younger 12.30 to 2pm on the first Wednesday of people with dementia the month (pre-retirement age). Call 0118 945 4209. Call 0118 324 7333 or email [email protected] MS Carers Lunch Club Lunch (free) & social club for carers of Carers Café people with Multiple Sclerosis—various Day Centre, South Lake Crescent, pubs/restaurants around Reading. Woodley RG5 3QW. 3-5pm last 12-2.30pm second Thursday of the Wednesday of the month. month. Call Barbara Annells 0118 967 7022 New Carers Support Groups Reading Dementia Carers Community Centre Swallowfield Drive, Reading RG2 8UH Support Group - Peer support for 10:30 am-12:30 pm carers of people living with dementia. 10.30am-12noon on the fourth Tuesday Cemetery Junction of the month. 448 Oxford Road, Reading Palmer Library RG30 1EE Please contact the Carers Hub for Email: further info: [email protected] or Call 0118 324 7333 or email call 0118 324 7333 [email protected] Reading Carers @ Caversham Heights Methodist , Need a break 74 Highmoor Road, Reading RG4 7BG from caring? 11am-12:30 on the first Monday of the Search Reading month. Call 0118 324 7333 or email Services Guide to find organisations [email protected] offering services and supported Whitley Carers (Stroke) Group activities. South Reading Youth and Community www.reading.gov.uk/servicesguide Centre, Northumberland Avenue. 0118 937 3747

11 Mental health & emotional wellbeing

Being a carer can be demanding and challenging so it’s really important to protect your own mental health and emotional wellbeing .

Mental health services

Community Mental Health Team The Community Mental Health Team is a joint health and social care team provided by Berkshire Healthcare NHS Compass Recovery College offers a Foundation Trust and Reading Borough range of courses which aim to help Council. people living with/recovering from The team provides specialist support to mental health problems develop the Reading adults (18 years+) with severe knowledge and skills they need to and complex mental health issues. manage their lives. Courses are jointly The team accepts self-referrals and led by people with their own lived referrals from relatives, friends and other experience of mental health and agencies - call the Common Point of clinically trained professionals Entry (CPE) on 0300 365 0300 The College also offers a programme of Mental Health Crisis Service peer led social and activity groups which provide opportunities for people with This team provides a 24/7 service to mental health issues to engage in support people having a mental health community activities in a safe and crisis and who are at risk of harming supported environment. themselves. Call 0118 937 3945 or email The aim of the service is to provide [email protected] support to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions. Call 0300 365 99 99. Talking Therapies Berkshire West Your Way Berkshire West Your Way offers a range This service provides psychological interventions, therapy, courses, of mental health support, including a workshops, face-to-face therapy and flexible programme of groups and activi- counselling to help with depression, ties in the community led by service us- anxiety and stress, phobias, panic and ers and peer supporters. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Call 0118 966 0240, visit: http:// Call 0300 365 2000 www.together-uk.org/yourway or email berkshirewest- [email protected] see www.berkshirehealthcare.nhs.uk

12 Information, advice and support Healthy Lifestyle Samaritans If you are worried, anxious, depressed A healthy lifestyle can contribute to or suicidal the Samaritans offer safe, emotional wellbeing. confidential support so you can talk Stop smoking support services about your problems, make sense of your situation and understand your op- Stopping smoking will help you feel tions. better and live longer. You are more likely to be successful if you get help Face to face: 59a Cholmeley Road, from specialist support services. Reading RG1 3NB (open 11am -10pm Services are FREE. - call 0118 926 6333) Call 0800 622 6360 or visit Call 116 123 (24/7 Helpline), visit www.smokefreelifeberkshire.com www.samaritans.org or email [email protected] “Eat for Health” weight management Rethink Looking after your physical health can National charity offering information, help to make you feel more positive. advice and support for people with mental illness, their families and carers Eat 4 health offer FREE support to help you manage your weight through a Visit www.rethink.org or call 0300 5000 programme of healthy eating and 927 exercise (tailored to your individual Mental Health Foundation abilities) National charity providing information Call 0800 634 9139 or visit and advice on a wide range of mental www.eat-4-health.co.uk health issues. Reading Walks Programme www.mentalhealth.org.uk Walking is a low impact exercise which Mind promotes general health and mental Information and advice on mental wellbeing being. health issues, where to get help, treat- The walks programme offers FREE ments and legal issues. guided walks by experienced walk Visit www.mind.org.uk or call the In- leaders. foline 0300 123 3393. Visit www.walkingforhealth.org.uk Young Minds “ONE YOU” The voice for young people’s mental This Public Health campaign health and wellbeing. provides information and advice to help you stop smoking, reduce drinking, get Visit www.youngminds.org.uk or call active and eat healthily. the parents helpline 0808 802 5544. See www.nhs.uk/oneyou for information and to download the Apps.

13 Carers grants, discounts and offers

The Reading and West Berkshire Carers Hub provides a range of grants to support carers who look after an adult or disabled child.

Carers Essentials You can use up to £140 (or 40% of the You can apply for grants of up to £300 grant award) for replacement care if towards the cost of ONE piece of needed. household equipment (like a washing Eligibility criteria apply. machine, cooker, fridge/freezer, bed) Carers: Skills for You which will benefit you in your caring role. You can apply for a grant of up to £500 The amount you get will be based on a to pay towards the costs of a course, standard price for a particular item - this class or training that will help you: is to ensure that the Carers Trust can .with your caring role maximise funds and help more people. .to refresh your skills and knowledge You must take this into account when or retrain for a new career so you can you are choosing the items. return to work In very exceptional circumstances you .develop new interests outside your may be able to apply for multiple items caring role. (as long as the combined cost is not more than £300). Ideally these items You can use the grant to pay towards: must be related (like a washing machine .course, class and tuition fees and outside airer) .course materials, books or equipment needed for the course or activity Carers Take Time Out .travel expenses and subsistence You can apply for a grant of up to £400 costs while taking part in the learning to help you get a holiday (at home or activity abroad). .the cost of replacement care (up to You can use the grant to: £200 or 40% of the grant awarded) .pay towards a holiday needed while you take part in the .enable the person you care for, a course or activity family member or friend to go away In the past the Carers Trust has helped with you pay towards a wide range of courses - .pay towards replacement care (£160 including creative writing, sign language, or 40% of the total grant awarded). counselling and training for an HGV Carers Access Grants licence. This grant is to help remove some of the transport related barriers to leading a full For more details and and independent life. to apply call the You can apply for a grant of up to £350 Reading & West to pay towards the cost of driving Berkshire Carers Hub lessons or other forms of transport. 0118 324 7333

14 Cinema If the person you care for receives a disability benefit or is registered blind they could get a CEA* Card - for a small charge. With the card the person accompanying them to a film gets a free ticket. Register with carerSmart to benefit To apply go to www.ceacard.co.uk or from a wide range of offers including: call 01244 526 016 .Cash back on shopping from major *Cinema Exhibitors’ Association retailers (like Boots, Argos, Sainsbury, M&S, B&Q, Apple) Your Reading Passport (YRP) .Best rates from energy providers YRP is a combined discount and library (like npower, e.on, British Gas) scheme for Reading Borough residents. .Insurance renewal savings It offers discounts: .Discounts on holidays and travel .on activities in the Council's sport and arrangement (First Choice) leisure centres .Reduced price lifestyle activities .to selected shows and events at (Costa Coffee, Legoland, Odeon, Reading Arts and Venues David Lloyd, Fitness First) .in Reading Museum’s gift shop and .Member advice services on children’s activities on DVD, Video and CD hire at ….and much more . Reading Libraries The club is for carers, people with .on allotments care needs, Carers Trust staff and .on bulky waste collections and volunteers as well as people who donate money. .with a variety of local businesses Register free at: www.carersmart.org Concessionary Passport CarerSmart is provided by Carers If you are over 60 years old, have a Trust. disability or are on a low income you may qualify for bigger discounts and free off-peak use of some sports and leisure facilities. Reading Arts and Venues How to join A person accompanying a wheelchair Please visit www.reading.gov.uk/yrp to user will get free admission to events at complete the application form online or the Hexagon, Town Hall, and South call 0118 937 3787 to request a hard Street. They can also arrange escorts to copy. give carers a break. There is also support available at your For details call 0118 960 6060 local library to complete the application form.

15 Benefits for Carers

Caring can lead to financial difficulties. It is important to ensure that both you and the person you care for claim all the benefits you are entitled to.

Carer’s Allowance How to claim You don’t have to be related to, or live Online www.gov.uk/carers-allowance with, the person you care for to claim. Email cau.customer-services@ You won’t get extra if you care for more dwp.gsi.gov.uk. than one person. Call 0800 731 0297 or Textphone To be eligible the person you care for 0800 731 0317 must get: .Personal Independence Payment Effect on other benefits Daily Living Component or Disability When you claim Carer’s Allowance the Living Allowance at the middle or person you care for will stop getting: highest rate for personal care or .a severe disability premium .Attendance Allowance or .an extra amount for severe disability .Constant Attendance Allowance at or paid with Pension Credit above the normal maximum rate with .reduced Council Tax (call 0118 937 an Industrial Injuries Disablement 3707 to see if this applies) Benefit or When you claim Carer’s Allowance your .Constant Attendance Allowance at other benefits may be reduced, but your the basic (full day) rate with a War total benefit payments will usually either Disablement Pension or go up or stay the same. .Armed Forces Independence The benefit cap limits the amount of Payment (AFIP). benefit that most people aged 16 to 64 and you must: can get. Some individual benefits aren’t .be 16 years or over affected, but it may affect the total .spend at least 35 hours a week caring amount of benefit you get. for someone If you get Working Tax Credit or Child .have lived in England, Scotland or Tax Credit, you must contact the Tax Wales for at least 2 of the last 3 years Credits Office (0345 300 3900) to tell .normally live in England, Scotland or them about your Carer’s Allowance Wales, or live abroad as a member of claim. the armed forces National Insurance Credits .not be not in full-time education or For each week you get Carer’s studying for 21 hours a week or more Allowance you’ will automatically get .not earn more than £110 a week Carer’s Credit to help fill gaps in your (after taxes, care costs while you’re at National Insurance record, to make sure work and 50% of what you pay into you qualify for certain benefits including your pension) - don’t count your the State Pension. pension as income See www.gov.uk/carers-credit) .not be subject to immigration control

16 Income Support If you and your partner are of working UNIVERSAL CREDIT full age and on a low income you may be service is available in eligible for Income Support. Reading. Find out more and how For more details see www.gov.uk/ you can apply at income-support. www.reading.gov.uk/uc To claim call Jobcentre Plus 0800 055 6688 or Textphone: 0800 023 4888

Disability Benefits

The person you care for may be eligible for disability benefits to help towards the cost of their care and support.

Personal Independence Payment Attendance Allowance PIP helps people aged 16 to 64 with If you are over 65 years you can claim AA some of the extra costs caused by long- to help towards the costs of personal care term ill-health or a disability. and support. It is paid at two different PIP has two parts – a Daily Living rates - how much you get depends on the Component and a Mobility Component. level of care you need. The rate you get is based on an Your other benefits may increase if you assessment and depends on how your get Attendance Allowance. condition affects you, not the condition For details visit www.gov.uk/attendance- itself. You will be regularly reassessed. allowance.To claim call the Attendance For details: visit www.gov.uk/pip Allowance Helpline 0800 731 0122 or To claim call 0800 917 2222 or Textphone: 0800 731 0317 Textphone 0800 917 7777 Employment Support Allowance Disability Living Allowance (DLA) The person you care for may be eligible You can only make new DLA claims for a for ESA if their illness or disability affects child under 16. their ability to work and they get DLA/PIP. For details visit www.gov.uk/disability- See https://www.gov.uk/employment- living-allowance-children support-allowance To claim call 0800 121 4600 or Textphone 0800 121 4523 If you were born on or after 8 April 1948 and currently receive your DLA will be Use an online benefits replaced by PIP – even if you have an calculator to make sure you and indefinite or lifetime award. the person you care for are getting The Department for Work and Pensions ALL the benefits you are entitled to: will tell you when to apply. .www.entitledto.co.uk If you were born earlier your DLA will .www.turn2us.org.uk continue.

17 Help with housing costs

If you are on low income and struggling to meet your housing costs you may be eligible for help with your rent, council tax and mortgage or loan interest.

Housing Benefit Homeowners If you are on a low income you may be If you own your own home and get able to get Housing Benefit to help certain income related benefits/Pension towards your rent. How much you get Credit you may get Support for depends on your rent, your income and Mortgage Interest (SMI) to help towards savings and the people in your the interest payments on: household. .your mortgage Your entitlement to Housing Benefit will .loans for certain repairs and be reduced if you have more bedrooms improvements to your home than you need (according to the national For more information and to claim visit bedroom standard). However, you are www.gov.uk/support-for-mortgage- allowed an extra bedroom if a member interest. of your household receives overnight care from someone who does not live ! SMI as a benefit is ending on 5 April 2018, and will be replaced by a loan. with you. Council Tax Discounts Council Tax Support If you live alone or nobody else in your If you are on a low income you may be home counts as an adult you are eligible for Council Tax Support to help entitled to a discount. towards your Council Tax. For Council Tax purposes the following You can apply for Council Tax Support people do not count as adults: even if you own your own home .anyone under 18, 18 and 19-year- olds in full-time education, full-time To check your eligibility for college and university students, Housing Benefit and/or student nurses and some apprentices. Council Tax support and apply .people under 25 who get funding visit becs.reading.gov.uk or call from the Skills Funding Agency or the Council’s Benefits Team on Young People’s Learning Agency 0118 937 3707. .foreign language assistants registered with the British Council .people with a severe mental impairment .live-in carers who look after someone who isn’t their partner, spouse or child

18 Council Tax Reduction You can apply for a reduction in your Council Tax if your home has been For all Council Tax related adapted to include: benefits, apply online at .a room for the disabled person or www.reading.gov.uk/counciltax or .an additional bathroom or kitchen or call the Council Tax Team .extra space for wheelchair access. 0118 937 3707

Housing Grants & Loans

The Council offers a variety of grants for people on low incomes to help ensure homes in Reading meet the decent homes standard.

Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) Small Repairs Grants If the person you look after is having If you receive a means tested benefit difficulty getting around and using the and have owned and lived in your home facilities in their home they may be for at least three years, or you are a eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant to private tenant with responsibility for pay for essential adaptations - like a stair repairs you may be eligible for a Small lift, wheelchair ramps, hoist etc. Repairs Grant to help pay for essential To apply contact social services call: repairs or improvements. .0118 937 3747 for disabled adults Flexible Improvement Loans .0118 937 3641 for disabled children The Council provides flexible loans for Reading residents 60 years and over to help improve the warmth, comfort, safety and security of your home. Repayments are flexible - you can pay regularly, occasionally or not at all but the loan, plus any outstanding interest must be repaid in full if you sell or move out of your property.

For more details about grants and loans: . Visit www.reading.gov.uk/ homeimprovementgrants .call the Council’s Private Sector Housing Team on 0118 937 2562

19 Help with heating costs

If you struggle to keep warm in winter you may be eligible for benefits, discounts and/or energy efficiency improvements to help with heating costs.

Winter Fuel Payment .home energy checks If you were born on or before 5 July .advice on bills and energy providers 1953 you should get a Winter Fuel .advice on energy efficiency grants Payment to help towards heating costs. .minor repairs to stop draughts If you don’t get your payment by .loans of heaters or dehumidifiers. Christmas call the helpline on 0800 731 For details see www.reading.gov.uk/ 0160/Textphone: 0800 731 0464 or visit winterwatch or call 0118 937 3747 www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment The Energy Company Obligation Cold Weather Payment The larger companies must help you If you get certain benefits you may be keep your energy costs down by: entitled to a Cold Weather Payment if .providing heating and insulation the temperature falls below zero for 7 improvements for low-income/ days or more in a row between 1 vulnerable households (not social November and 31 March. If you qualify housing tenants). you will get this payment automatically. .providing funding to insulate solid- Warm Home Discount Scheme walled properties and those with ‘hard If you get the Guarantee Credit element -to-treat’ cavity walls of Pension Credit or are on a low income Contact one of the larger suppliers (you you could get £140 off your gas or don’t need to be a customer). electricity bill. If you qualify you should See www.energysavingtrust.org.uk or receive a letter this autumn/winter call 0300 123 1234 for advice. explaining what you must do. If you think you qualify but don’t get a Switch and save letter call the Warm Home Discount You may be able to reduce your energy Scheme 03303 801 040 costs by switching to a cheaper supplier. If you have a pre-pay meter - you may .Visit www.goenergyshopping.co.uk be eligible for a voucher to pay for top- for advice and links to energy price ups. comparison sites. See www.gov.uk/the-warm-home- .Contact Citizens Advice Reading who discount-scheme for details or contact offer dedicated energy advice your supplier appointments to help you: Winter Watch Reading ∗ compare suppliers and get the best deal If you live in Reading, are over 60 have very young children or have a disability ∗ get arrears under control or health concerns and are on a low ∗ access any extra help available income you may be eligible for: ∗ be more energy efficient ∗ understand smart meters

20 See www.rcab.org.uk/energy, call 0118 952 3022 or email Information & Advice [email protected] .Download the Voltz app to track the best gas and electricity deals and Citizens Advice Reading helps you switch using your mobile phone. Street, RG1 2JB .advice on bills and energy providers Offers free confidential information and .advice on energy efficiency grants advice on money, benefits, debt, .minor repairs to stop draughts housing, employment, immigration and a .loans of heaters or dehumidifiers. range of other issues. For details see www.reading.gov.uk/ Adviceline 03444 111 306 Web: http://rcab.org.uk/

Reading Community Welfare rights Priority Service Registers 101 Oxford Road, RG1 7UD for vulnerable households Offers free, confidential and impartial Services such as gas, welfare benefits & housing advice. electricity, water, Call: 0118 955 1070 phones and public transport are not Communicare Reading luxuries. We need 233 Kings Road RG1 4LS them every day to look Offers free confidential advice on: after ourselves. .benefits and welfare rights (plus help Regulated providers of to claim) these services offer .housing Priority Services Registers to provide extra help for .Debt customers who are more vulnerable .employment because they are older, have a disability .Legal matters (support with letter or long-term illness. writing) This could include: Plus information on: .Help with meter reading .living with disabilities .Advance notice of disruption to .advice for carers services/emergency arrangements .community services & activities .Capped water bills (meters only) if .health issues and services use extra water due to medical need .divorce and separation .Bills in alternative formats Free Internet access during drop-ins Free gas safety checks if you receive . Call: 0118 926 3941 certain benefits Web: www.communicare.org.uk/ Visit www.reading.gov.uk/psr

21 Accessible holidays and days out

Use the following websites to help you and your family find a short break, holiday or day out. Tourism for All UK Disabledholidays.com National charity dedicated to making Specialist travel agent offering tourism welcoming to all. Visit everything you need to find and arrange www.tourismforall.org.uk a holiday at home and abroad. Visit England .accessible accommodation .supported and escorted holidays and The English national tourist board holidays with care website has information and guides to help you plan an accessible break. See .activity holidays for disabled adults www.visitengland.com/plan-your-visit/ and children access-all .airport assistance, flights and adapted transfers Open Britain .mobility and equipment hire Search www.openbritain.net to find .specialist holiday insurance accessible destinations and places to stay in the UK. .deals Visit www.disabledholidays.com or call Nationwide Access Register 0161 804 9898 See www.directenquiries.com for information and guides to help you plan accessible outings in the UK. Limitless Travel Tours and holiday packages for people with disabilities (and anyone who wants a really great holiday) tailored to your needs. .Accessible accommodation .Accessible travel and transfers .Accessible guided tours Visit www.limitlesstravel.org, email [email protected] or call 0800 Carer’s Hub Holidays 069 8060 The Reading and West Berkshire Carers Hub can provide short breaks for Carers and their families. You must be registered with them to qualify. For more information please call 0118 324 7333

22 Help with travel and travel costs

There is a range of support to help the person you care for get out and around. Travelling by bus Readibus have priority seats for ReadiBus offers a door-to-door, fully older people and passengers with accessible, assisted bus service for disabilities and most buses are people who can’t use, or have great accessible for most types of wheelchairs difficulty in using, ordinary public (but not mobility scooters). transport. Services include: In Reading, buses on the busiest routes .Dial-a-ride (door-to-door support) are colour coded to help people with .Timetabled services learning disabilities or cognitive .Shopping assistance in the town impairment find the bus they need. centre For details www.reading-buses.co.uk or .Football service to away games call 0118 959 4000. (STAR members only) Concessionary bus passes for For more information or to register and Reading residents book visit www.readibus.co.uk or call 0118 931 0000 Older People Once you reach state pension age you Travelling by train qualify for a Concessionary Bus Pass You can find information about the which allows you to travel free on local services, facilities and assistance buses anywhere in England: available to support disabled .Monday to Friday from 9.30am to passengers at www.nationalrail.co.uk, 11pm and or call 0800 022 3720; Textphone/ .anytime at weekends and on public minicom: 0845 6050 600. holidays. Visit www.nationalrail.co.uk/ People with a disability stations_destinations for an interactive tool that lets you plan your way around You may be eligible for an Access Pass stations to avoid stairs. which allows you to travel free within the Borough at anytime. Some stations offer free parking for Blue Badge holders. Outside Reading, journeys are only free: .Monday to Friday from 9.30am to Railcards 11pm and You may be eligible to buy a railcard .anytime at weekends and on public which gives money off most first class holidays. and standard fares across the UK: If you can’t travel alone you can apply .The Disabled Persons Railcard is for for a Companion Pass which allows the passengers with eligible disabilities person supporting you to travel free and their travelling companion - see within Reading Borough only. www.disabled persons-railcard.co.uk Call Reading Borough Council on 0118 .The Senior Rail Card is for people of 937 3787 to apply. 60 see www.senior-railcard.co.uk

23 Disabled parking Radar National Key Scheme The Blue Badge Scheme provides The National Key Scheme (NKS) offers parking concessions for people with disabled people independent access to severe mobility problems. To apply visit locked public disabled toilets around the www.reading.gov.uk/bluebadge or call country. 0118 937 2033. You can buy a RADAR key from the Travelling by Air Shopmobility service in the Oracle. Passengers with disabilities or reduced Go to level 1 of the Holy Brook Car Park, mobility can request free assistance to Bridge Street, Reading RG1 2LR travel through airports and get on and off planes in Europe and the US (other countries may charge). You must book in advance. Accessible facilities Airlines must carry two pieces of mobility equipment free of charge - as long as it Changing Places fits through the door. Changing Places toilets offer extra Visit www caa.co.uk/specialassistance facilities with extra features and more Shopmobility space to meet these needs of people with complex disabilities. A service that helps all people with mobility problems get around city and For more information and to search for town centres independently, with changing places services across the freedom, confidence and dignity. country visit www.changing-places.org See www.shopmobility.org.uk Local facilities include: The Oracle Shopmobility Scheme Broad Street Mall Broad Street, Reading RG1 7QE Provides scooters, wheelchairs and The toilet is on the first floor of the mall powerchairs - free of charge - to help close to other toilet facilities. The facility people with mobility problems get is fitted with specialist equipment around the town centre. Please use the including an overhead hoist. Holy Brook Car Park (Bridge Street, Reading RG1 2LR) for direct access. Dinton Pastures Country Park New users must register with the service Davis Street, Hurst, Wokingham RG10 0TH (ID is required). For information on the country park visit For more information call 0118 965 9008 dintonpastures.co.uk or visit https://www.theoracle.com/visitor- Royal Berkshire Hospital info/shopmobility Craven Road, Reading RG1 5AN Wheelchair hire The toilet is located on level 1 by the You may be able to borrow or hire main entrance. The key is available 24/7 wheelchairs (and medical equipment): from security at main reception (L2) .British Red Cross - 0300 456 1914 www.redcross.org.uk .Medical Equipment - John Nike House, 90 Eastern Avenue, Reading RG1 5SF or call 0118 935 8236

24 Working and Caring

Although working alongside caring can be difficult to juggle, it does ensure you have a life outside your caring responsibilities which provides different challenges, the chance to meet/stay in contact with other people and some financial stability. Talk to your employer Should I give up work? Make sure your employer is aware of Many carers feel they should give up work your situation - they may agree to because the demands of caring are so making reasonable changes to your great. However, once you give up work work pattern - like working part-time, job you may find it hard to get back into the sharing, working term-time only or job market. And once you are a full-time working compressed hours (fitting five carer you may find it difficult to keep in day’s work into four longer days) and touch with others and you may face other support. financial difficulties. Before you decide ask yourself: Other help .How much time do I spend caring? .Contact Adult Social Care Services to see if you and the person you care for .Am I the only person who can provide can get help so you can continue to this care? work. See page 4. .Would the person I care for accept help .You may be able to buy support from others? services from a care agency. .Can I afford to give up work? .How will giving up work affect my Talking through your options pension entitlement? Before you decide it may help to talk .Will I miss the social contact or the work your options through with someone else. itself? You can: .Will I lose important skills? .call the Carers Hub on 0118 324 7333 .see if there is someone in your Know your rights workplace who could help - like HR, Most working carers have the following occupational health or an in-house rights: counselling or information service. .The right to request flexible working Getting back into work .The right to take time off in emergencies Jobcentre Plus runs a Work Preparation .The right to parental leave if you have a Support Scheme for carers which child provides advice and training to help you .The right not to be discriminated against start or return to work. or harassed because of your association You may also get help with the cost of with someone who has a protected replacement care while you take part in characteristic or disability under the Equality Act training or attend interviews. You may not be covered by these rights if For details call Jobcentre Plus 0800 169 you are self-employed, on a short term 0190 or Textphone: 0800 169 0314 contract or employed through an agency.

25 Support for young carers

If you are between 5 and 18 years and you spend a lot more time looking after a family member or carrying out household chores than other children/young people your age because a parent, brother, sister, grandparent or other relative is ill, disabled, has a mental illness, a learning disability or a problem with drugs or alcohol, then you are a young carer. Your extra responsibilities Young Carers Project These may include: All Youth Club sessions are at Fairview .Extra household chores like cleaning, Youth Club (transport can be arranged). cooking, shopping or laundry For more information: .Organising appointments or helping .For children under 13 years - email: with medication [email protected] .Looking after brothers and sisters or .For young people 13 years and over - helping them with homework email: [email protected] .Helping someone with washing, Call 0118 937 3641 for more dressing and getting in/out of bed information or to make a referral. .Supporting a relative after they have been drinking or using drugs or when Mencap Siblings Club their mood is low Mencap Reading organises at least one .Looking after a sibling who has school holiday activity for siblings (aged special needs 8-16 years) of those attending regular Mencap events and clubs. These extra responsibilities may: For more information, call 0118 966 2518 .cause you to fall behind if you can’t or email [email protected]. get to school, do homework or are too tired to concentrate No. 5 Counselling Service .make it difficult for you to take part in A safe place to talk about the difficulties activities or meet with friends outside in your life. Counsellors are trained to school or get time to yourself listen and help you make sense of your Young carers assessment thoughts, feelings and behaviour. They won’t judge you or tell you what to do. This involves talking to you, your parents (and anyone else you want to be This is a free, confidential service for involved) to: young people aged 10 to 25 who live or work in the Greater Reading area. .look at the impact caring has on your education, training and leisure Call 0118 901 5668 for an appointment. opportunities Other enquires: 0118 901 5649 or [email protected] .decide if it is appropriate for you to continue providing this care .ask you if you want to carry on caring and, if so, how much support you are willing and able to provide .identify other support for your family

26 Safeguarding adults and children

Safeguarding means looking out for people who might be at risk of being mistreated or neglected by others or who are not attending to their own health or wellbeing. It is for children and adults who have disabilities or difficulties that mean they need the support of others. If you think someone is at risk because they are not looking after themselves or you know they are being mistreated by others, please contact Reading Borough Council.

Abuse can be: .Physical - being slapped, pushed or Report Abuse - punched make it stop .Sexual - being touched inappropriately or forced to have sex .Emotional - being shouted at, Adult abuse and neglect - If you humiliated or threatened with harm are being abused or are concerned .Financial - having money and about a someone: valuables taken without permission, being prevented from accessing own Safeguarding Adults money or being pressured to give or 0118 937 3747 leave money or things in a will .Neglect - Not being given support that’s needed to stay well; for Child protection - If you are example, not getting medicine, concerned about a child or young adequate food and/or drink person: .Discrimination - being treated badly because of age, disability, race or Children’s Single Point of religion Access 0118 937 3641 .Self-neglect - an adult who lacks mental capacity and doesn’t look after If you are themselves, their home or health Domestic abuse - experiencing domestic abuse: Abuse can happen anywhere - at home, at work, in a care home, day centre or hospital or any public place. BWA Helpline 0118 950 4003 Anyone can be an abuser - a partner, relative, carer, neighbour, friend or staff. In an emergency: If someone is in danger:

Police 999

27 Supported learning, training and working

Colleges

Most colleges provide specialist courses and/or support to help people with disabilities. New Directions 330 Northumberland Avenue, Whitley,

Reading, RG2 8DH Call 0345 842 0012 Reading College Reading Campus, Kings Road, Reading Looking for a course, training RG1 4HJ opportunity or paid work? Call 0800 036 8888 or email courses Visit the Reading Services Guide to @uwl.ac.uk find organisations offering specialist Bracknell and Wokingham College support for people with disabilities Church Road, Bracknell RG12 1DJ www.reading.gov.uk/serviceguide Call 01344 766 200 or visit www.bracknell.ac.uk Henley College Deanfield Avenue, Henley-on-, RG9 1UH Call 01491 579 988 or visit www.henley col.ac.uk Training and working Newbury College Job Centre plus Monks Lane, Newbury RG14 7TD Specialist Disability Employment Advisers providing advice and support Call 01635 845 000 or visit to help people with disabilities into work. www.newbury-college.ac.uk Drop into Adelphi House (Friar Street, Help with costs Reading RG1 1HD) or call 0800 169 24+ Advanced Learning Loans 0190 Loans to available to pay course fees for Adviza people over 24 years attending an Offers specialist advice and support for eligible course (level 3 or 4 /A level) young people with special needs up to the age of 25. Bursary Fund Drop into the Elevate Reading Hub Help with some costs while studying - (Reading Central Library, like classroom assistance, childcare and Square, Reading RG1 3BQ), call 0118 travel. For details visit www.gov.uk/ 402 7050 or visit www.adviza.org advanced-learning-loans

28 Learning Disability Services

Supported day services and Strathy Close - LD Day Service activities Council run day service for adults with There is a wide range of day learning disabilities who need a high opportunities offered across the level of support - including help with borough for people with learning personal care where needed. disabilities. The team work with individual service You can find details of services on the users (and their carers) to develop a Reading Services Guide personal support plan that includes their www.reading.gov.uk/servicesguide preferred activities and supports them to develop skills, knowledge and self- Mencap esteem to help maximise their potential. Provides services and support for The Service offers a programme of children and adults with learning interactive, sensory and physical activi- disabilities and their families. ties that helps develop independence, They offer information, advice, support, promote a healthy lifestyle. They make activities, clubs, trips and events good use of nearby sports and leisure facilities to increase choice and ensure The LD Health Project a community presence. This Project aims to ensure more Referrals are accepted from social people with LD register for their annual workers, people with NHS Continuing health check with their GP. Healthcare funding and self-funders. Visit www.readingmencap.org.uk or call Strathy Close (off Craig Avenue), 0118 966 2518 , RG30 2PP Royal Berkshire Hospital (RBH) Tel: 0118 937 5346 The Senior Nurse/Learning Disability Coordinator can help make hospital Open Monday to Friday from 9am to visits easier for you and the person you 3pm care for. For more information see www.royal Autism Support berkshire.nhs.uk/information-for- disabled-patients or call 0118 322 8159 Courses Talkback supports people with autism and learning disabilities to build self es- Most colleges provide specialist courses teem, confidence and have more say and/or support to help people with and control over their own lives. disabilities. See page 28 for details of local colleges http://www.talkback-uk.com/where-we- work/reading For more information email us at talk- [email protected] or call 01494 434448

29 Sensory Needs Services

If the person you care for is deaf, hard of .offer specialist training hearing, deaf/blind or has a visual .tell you about specialist support impairment contact Sensory Needs groups Team. A social care worker will visit you .discuss the registration process and at home to carry out a specialist its benefits assessment to see what could help you manage your sensory impairment. If you have other care and support needs they may support you through the Depending on the outcome of this care needs assessment process. specialist assessment they may: .offer practical tips, advice and Contact the Team information Call on 0118 937 6131 (minicom: 0118 .provide specialist equipment to help 943 1088) or email: you maintain your independence [email protected]

Dementia

Older People’s Mental Health Reading Alzheimer’s Society Team (Berkshire Healthcare NHS Trust) Information and advice, one-to-one Supports older people with dementia, support, befriending scheme and depression, psychosis or severe anxiety, activities for people with all forms of younger people with early onset dementia dementia, their family/carers and friends. and family, friends and carers. Call 0118 959 6482 or Call 0300 365 0300. email Berkshire @alzheimers.org.uk Younger People with Dementia Singing for the Brain Support and activities for people aged 65 Sessions held in Calcot (Tuesday years and younger, with a diagnosis of mornings) & (Friday dementia and their carers. mornings). Call 07500 806385, visit www.ypwd.info Call Jocelyn on 0118 959 6482 Or email: [email protected] Reading Dementia Action Alzheimer’s Society Alliance Information and advice about living with Works with local business, the care and caring for someone with dementia. sector, people with dementia and their Visit www.alzheimers.org.uk or call the carers to promote and sustain the town helpline on 0300 222 1122 as a dementia friendly community. For more information email: [email protected] or call 07834 335103.

30 Power of Attorney

If the person you look after lacks the capacity to make decisions about their care the Council will discuss their needs with the individual(s) legally appointed to make welfare and/or financial decisions. To make such decisions the indivi- dual(s) must be able to demonstrate that they have Lasting Power of Attorney or have been appointed by the Court of Protection. See www.gov.uk/government/organisations/office-of-the-public-guardian for more details

End of Life Care

End of life care should help the person you care for live as well as possible until in the last years/months of their life, and to die with dignity. The people providing care should ask them about their wishes and preferences, and take these into account when they work with you to plan their care. The person you care for has the right to express their wishes about where they want to receive care and where they want to die. End of life care could be provided at home or in a hospice or hospital. Anyone approaching the end of their life is entitled to high-quality care, wherever they’re being cared for.

Local palliative care services In Reading palliative care services are provided by the NHS and charities. Visit www.reading.gov.uk/servicesguide National Council for Palliative Care (NCPC) Umbrella charity for all those involved in The “Dying Matters” website palliative, end of life and hospice care provides advice, guidance and Call 020 7697 1520 visit resources to help you and the www.ncpc.org.uk/ person you care for talk about their Marie Curie wishes for their end of life care. Marie Curie offers information, advice Planning ahead also makes the and guidance to help you deal with your legal and practical consequences of feelings, look after yourself and provide illness and death much easier for day-to-day care. everyone to deal with. Visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/help/being- www.dyingmatters.org there or call 0800 090 2309

31 Drug and Alcohol Support

There are a number of organisations offering support to people who misuse drugs and/or alcohol and those who are affected by this addiction.

Drug and alcohol services Support for family and friends IRiS Reading DrugFam Integrating Recovery in Services (IRiS) Support for families and friends affected provides free and confidential by someone else’s misuse of drugs and/ information, advice and support to or alcohol. Reading adults (18 years+) and is the National helpline 0300 888 3853 or first point of contact to access local drug www.drugfam.co.uk and alcohol services. Local support group meets Mondays Services include: 7:30pm-9pm, Renewal Centre, Church .Referrals to substitute prescribing Road, Swallowfield, Reading RG7 12J .Pre-detox support Adfam .Harm reduction A national organisation supporting .Health screening and vaccinations families and friends affected by .Housing support someone else’s drug and alcohol .Alternative therapies problems. .Referrals to IRiS treatment and Visit www.adfam.org.uk for information, Recovery Services and IRiS advice and to find your nearest support Recovery and Wellbeing Services group. .Needle exchange Al-Anon Drop in: 4 Waylen Street, Reading, RG1 Supporting family and friends of 7UR or call 0118 955 7333 / alcoholics. [email protected] National Helpline 020 7403 0888 SOURCE Visit www.al-anonuk.org.uk to find a Drug and alcohol service supporting local meeting. children and young people with a drug and/or alcohol problem in Reading. Families Anonymous Call 0118 937 3641 or visit Supporting family and friends affected by www.reading.gov.uk/ someone else’s substance misuse. childrensreferralform for assistance Visit www.famanon.org.uk to find a local meeting.

32 NHS Health Services

NHS Choices Patient Advice & Liaison Service For information about health conditions, For confidential information and advice advice about staying well plus on health-related matters and support to signposting to local health services: complain about hospital services. Visit www.nhs.uk .Royal Berkshire Hospital: 0118 322 8338 or Carers Direct on NHS Choices [email protected] For information and advice for carers .Berkshire Healthcare NHS visit www.nhs.uk/carers or call the Foundation Trust: 0118 960 5027 or Carer’s Direct Helpline 0300 123 1053 [email protected] Your local pharmacy Ask your pharmacist for advice on treating common minor illnesses Be a flu fighter! (diarrhoea, minor infections, headache, sore throats and colds) Protect yourself & Your GP the person you care for! Make an appointment with your GP for if you are unwell and it is not an Get your FREE flu jab from emergency. your GP or pharmacy Reading Walk-in Health Clinic EVERY autumn (Broad Street Mall RG1 7QA) Drop-in GP service and minor injuries (cuts and sprains). Walk in or call for an appointment 0118 902 8300 (open everyday 8am - 8pm) 111 – NHS Non-Emergencies Helps local people get the best out of their For information and advice for illness or local health and social care services by injury which is not life-threatening plus providing: advice about local NHS services: .opportunities for people to have their Call 111 – available 24/7 say and influence the delivery and A&E - Royal Berkshire Hospital design of local health and care services For serious illness or injury visit A&E .advice and advocacy to help you (Craven Road, Reading RG1 5AN ) understand your rights, raise concerns or make complaints about the service 999 Ambulance Services you received. For life threatening illness (like chest Call 0118 937 2295 or email pain/ shortness of breath) or injury call [email protected] 999 www.healthwatchreading.org.uk

33 Useful Contacts

Carers Support Organisations Reading and West Berkshire Carers 0118 324 7333 www.berkshirecarershub.org Hub Carers UK 0808 808 7777 www.carersuk.org Carers Direct (NHS) 0300 123 1053 nhs.uk/carersdirect

Social Services: Older people/adults with disabilities 0118 937 3747

Children with disabilities 0118 937 3641

Young Carers 0118 937 3641

Sensory Needs Service 0118 937 6131

Out of Hours (emergencies only) 01344 786543

Safeguarding Children and vulnerable adults and children Safeguarding adults 0118 937 3747 Safeguarding children 0118 937 3641

Community Mental Health Services Common Point of Entry 0300 365 0300 www.berkshirehealthcare.nhs.uk Mental Health Crisis Service 0300 365 99 99

Health Services Royal Berkshire Hospital 0118 322 5111 www.royalberkshire.nhs.uk Berkshire Healthcare NHS Trust 0118 960 5027 www.berkshirehealthcare.nhs.uk

Reading Walk-In/Minor Injuries 0118 902 8300 readingwalkinhealthcentre.nhs.uk

NHS Choices nhs.uk NHS non-emergency number 111

Life threatening emergencies 999

Information and Advice (including money, benefits and debt advice)

Citizens Advice Reading 03444 111 306 www.rcab.org.uk Reading Welfare Rights 0118 955 1070 www.readingcommunitywelfareright sunit.co.uk Communicare 0118 926 3941 www.communicare.org.uk 34

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