At Liverpool City Council, we are developing a new Carers Strategy to better support unpaid carers of all ages across our city. As part of this, we need residents and carers to share their experiences and help shape the future of support services.
One of those voices is Lynne, a carer from Liverpool, who looks after her older sister Nancy. Here, Lynne shares her story.
My name is Lynne, I’m 69, and I care for my sister Nancy, who is 88.
Nancy was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s five years ago. We still see glimpses of the Nancy we know and love, but she no longer remembers things we’ve told her just minutes before.
Nancy lives on her own, with support from professional carers who visit three times a day. But I go every day too. I do her shopping, her washing, and I take her out once or twice a week. It’s hard work. Trying to find time for myself feels almost impossible. I used to go to the gym and keep fit, but now I struggle to make space for anything else.
Being referred to the Carers Centre was like a breath of fresh air. It gave me a lifeline. I now go to yoga and tai chi classes those little moments are like oases in my life. I really appreciate the support I get from the centre, but I wish it were easier to organise things around Nancy’s care. I haven’t had a proper break in months, and it’s exhausting.
Getting the support you need is sometimes difficult. I understand that resources are stretched, but when you’re at breaking point, you need help not long phone queues or having to chase up enquiries. It should be seamless. You should know someone is listening and will get back to you.
That’s why I think this new Carers Strategy is so important. I hope it will make a real difference for people like me. I’d encourage every carer young or old to get involved and share their story. It’s not just me. There are so many of us out there, doing our best, often in silence.
Have your say on the draft Carers Strategy and help shape the future of support for unpaid carers in Liverpool: https://liverpool.gov.uk/council/consultation-and-engagement/consultation/consultation-on-liverpools-all-age-carers-strategy
Support and Advice
If you are an adult carer please go to:
Local Solutions Carers Centre https://localsolutions.org.uk/liverpool-city-region-services/communities/carers-support/
If you are a young carer or young adult carer please go to:
Barnardos https://www.barnardos.org.uk/get-support/young-carers?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=2077432990
If you want to connect with other carers in a more informal way, please join:
Mobilise Hub: https://support.mobiliseonline.co.uk/register-for-the-mobilise-hub