There is a fantastic network of charities all ready and waiting to give you a helping hand
The Alzheimer's Society is the leading UK care and research charity for people with dementia, their families and carers. Visit their website at www.alzheimers.org.uk
Carers UK
Carers UK is an organisation of carers fighting to make people recognise the true value of carers' contribution to society and to ensure carers get the practical, financial and emotional support they need. You can find out more about them at www.carersuk.org. A special carers' (0808 808 7777) line is open on Wednesday and Thursday from 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm.
Counsel and Care
Counsel and Care is a national charity getting the best care and support for older people, their families and carers. It does this by providing advice, information and financial support, and by influencing future policies, services and funding. Established in 1954 to address the needs of older people unable to access care and support, they see themselves as the experts in elder care. Through their advice service (0845 300 7585), their website (www.counselandcare.org.uk), publications, and campaigning work, they reach around 250,000 people every year.
Crossroads Care
Crossroads Care is about giving time - improving the lives of carers by giving them time to be themselves and have a break from their caring responsibilities. Their aim is to provide a reliable service, tailored to meet the individual needs of each carer and the person they are caring for. They have schemes in most parts of England and Wales, which provide a range of services to meet local needs. Over 4.6 million care hours are provided every year to more than 35,000 carers - the equivalent of over 525 years of care www.crossroads.org.uk/0845 450 0350
The Princess Royal Trust for Carers
The Princess Royal Trust for Carers is the largest provider of comprehensive carers support services in the UK, giving information, support and practical help through its unique network of independently managed Carers’ Centres, young carers services and interactive websites: www.carers.org (for adults); www.youngcarers.net (for 18 and under).