After all, aren't all parents’ carers? Yes, we are, there’s no doubt that parents are carers for life. But what about when your child has additional needs? Unless you experience this for yourself or live with a family who has a child with additional needs, then how can anyone explain the difference between being a parent and being a parent carer?And how many of us can actually identify the extra caring, stressors and long term effects that being a parent carer has when compared to typical families? When we do, how many people tell us “what a good job you’re doing” and “keep up the good work”?

If you would like to be part of the Wirral Family Forum to meet other parents of children with additional needs, discuss local services and have your say in how services for your children are planned and delivered then please call the carers helpline on 0151 670 0777 and speak to a member of the carers team or
contact us

Your changing needs as a parent should also be taken into consideration in your Carer's Assessment, a document that looks at the impact of your caring role on you and your family and details what support should be provided, for example short breaks, or help with household tasks.

Family Fund

Helping families in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales

The Family Fund helps families with severely disabled children to have choices and the opportunity to enjoy ordinary life. We give grants for things that make life easier and more enjoyable for the disabled child and their family, such as washing machines, driving lessons, hospital visiting costs, computers and holidays.
The Family Fund is a registered charity covering the whole of the UK and is funded by the national governments of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

NHS Parent carers:-
http://www.nhs.uk/CarersDirect/guide/parent-carers/Pages/Diagnosis-and-support.aspx

• Information, advice and support about caring for your child

Direct Gov parent carers:-

• Supporting your child and family
• Health care professionals you may come into contact with
• Direct payments and benefits
• Support groups
• Relevant legislation

There are many resources available to offer advice and assistance if you are a parent carer.

If you require further assistance to make sense of all the information, or you require more help about services on the Wirral, please contact WIRED on the carers helpline.   

If you would like to meet other parents to talk about your issues call the parent carer support services Tel no 0151 670 0777

WHO IS A PARENT CARER? (follow the link)