Support for Carers
We recognise the immense value of carers, whose dedication and hard work often go unnoticed. Caring for a loved one or others in need requires tremendous effort, whether it’s providing emotional support, assisting with daily activities, or managing complex health needs.
Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire is committed to supporting carers by offering practical advice, emotional support, respite options, and access to services that help alleviate the pressures they face.
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Short Breaks For Carers
Short breaks for carers are available through our Home Support service, giving you the chance to take time out for yourself—whether that’s visiting a friend, attending an appointment, or simply having a rest. A caring, trained support worker will provide company and reassurance for the person you care for in the comfort of their own home, so you can take a break with peace of mind.
This flexible service runs Monday to Friday and operates across Coventry and Warwickshire. Support is charged at an hourly rate.
Please get in touch to find out more and discuss how we can support you.
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Dementia Day Opportunities- Day Care
Our Dementia Day Opportunities service operates across Warwickshire, providing a welcoming and person-centred environment tailored to the individual needs of each attendee. Designed for people with a diagnosis of dementia who are able to interact with others, the service runs for six hours a day and offers meaningful activities, social engagement, and a safe, supportive setting.
Funding for this service is provided by Warwickshire County Council, and they are able to fund some places.
Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (MCST) is an evidence-based programme designed to support individuals living with mild to moderate dementia.
It supports you and the person you care for by engaging underused parts of the brain through new thoughts and communication, specifically designed for people with dementia. It provides a fun, relaxed learning environment.
The service also gives you a valuable break and the chance to connect with others who are in similar situations, helping you feel more supported and less isolated.
Please get in touch with us to find out more.
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Support For In-Patients
Hospital Social Prescribing operates from the main hospitals across Warwickshire, offering support to carers during hospital stays—whether it's the person you care for who is in hospital, or you yourself as a carer.
Our dedicated Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire hospital social prescribers are here to listen and help. Simply ask for them on the ward, and they will find time to talk with you about any concerns you may have.
They can help organise support directly where possible, or refer and signpost you to other services that can assist—giving you peace of mind at what can be a very distressing time.
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Financial Support For Carers
Our benefits advice service is free, confidential, and quality-accredited, offering caring and compassionate support to carers. We’re here to help you understand and access the financial support you may be entitled to, easing some of the financial pressures that may come with your role. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or just unsure where to start, we're here to guide you.
Such help may include checking eligibility for benefits such as Carer’s Allowance, Universal Credit, and Pension Credit, as well as disability-related benefits for the person you care for.
A trained adviser will guide you through the often complex application processes, help with completing forms, and assisting with appeals if a claim is denied.
They can also advise on housing benefits, council tax reductions, and grants or discounts that may be available.
If we are unable to help you directly, we can usually signpost you to an alternative organisation who can.
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Counselling Support for Carers
Our Counselling Service offers emotional and psychological support for carers—those who spend their time and energy looking after others. We understand that sometimes the role can be demanding and isolating, and this service provides a safe, confidential space where you can talk openly about your feelings, challenges, and experiences without judgment.
The service is available for those over 50 and is delivered on a one-to-one basis, either over the phone or online. We may also be able to offer face-to-face sessions, depending on availability in your area.
We invite you to get in touch with us to see how we can support you.
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Befriending
Our Befriending Service is here to support you by pairing you with a befriending volunteer for regular chats—either in person or by phone. This weekly connection can provide you with a safe and supportive space to share your thoughts and to make a connection with someone outside of your caring role. By helping to reduce isolation and offering consistent companionship, the service aims to help you feel connected to your community, giving you a chance to take a break and easing some of the emotional challenges that may be part of a caring role.
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Our Services
If you would like to have a look at all of Our Services that we offer, be sure to click this link to find out more about how we can help you or someone you care for.
You can view our Guide to Later Life e-booklet here. The booklet showcases the charity's usual quality-accredited services, new developments and services offered by other agencies
02476 231999 | info@ageukcovwarks.org.uk
Advice for carers information guide
Caring for a friend or relative can be hugely rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Download our guide to learn what support is available for you and the person you look after.
This guide looks at both the practical and emotional sides of caring, such as:
- getting the help you need
- financial support
- practical tips and advice
- looking after yourself.
This guide also lets you know where to go if you need help – so you always know you’re not alone.
Case Study - Information & Advice
What was the situation?
'Mary' is 76 years old and initially approached Age UK Coventry & Warwickshire for a benefit entitlement check, as money was tight. At the time she was the main carer for her 82-year-old husband, who had a severe lung condition. Her caring role was particularly challenging as she had her own health issues, but Mary wanted to continue caring for her husband as long as possible.
How did we help?
An advisor called and explained to Mary, the support available to carers, should she need it in the future – such as a carer’s assessment & respite options, which Mary found reassuring. Additionally, Mary was given information on how to request an assessment for aids/equipment from the Local Authority, which led to several grab rails being installed - which proved invaluable to them both. Mary also mentioned her husband was struggling to manage his finances, so she was given information on how to arrange a Power of Attorney.
With regards to benefits, the advisor identified Mary qualified for Attendance Allowance, based on her own health difficulties. She was supported in claiming this and was awarded £110.40 pw. Although initially the couple’s income was above the qualifying threshold for Pension Credit, by helping Mary claim “underlying Carers Allowance”, the couple then became eligible to £17.76 pw Pension Credit Savings. Once in receipt of this they were then able to claim a free TV licence and became entitled to the Winter Fuel Payment.
What is the long-term outcome?
In total the couple are now approximately £7,000 per year better off, which has meant they no longer have to worry about finances. With the extra money, Mary was able to install a walk-in shower – which has made washing her husband much easier.
Mary said, “I’m reassured I can get back in touch with Age UK should I need them again in the future. It was a struggle for both of us. It is the practical support and not just the money that has helped to make our lives easier.”
*This case study has been anonymised. Mary and the image have no relation to the individual's story