Carers Support West Wiltshire started in 1989 as an independent voluntary organisation based in Bridge House, Trowbridge.
The geographic areas covered includes both urban and rural communities, including the five towns of Trowbridge, Warminster, Westbury, Bradford-on-Avon, Melksham and 42 parishes.
Since its initiation CSWW has grown and now supports approximately 1300 carers. In addition people who no longer care and become former carers are able to continue to access support.
Carers are people looking after their relatives or friends who, because of a disability, illness or the effects of old age, cannot manage at home without help. Carers are ordinary people who simply get on with what has to be done when someone close to them needs looking after.
Some may care for just a few hours a week, others may care for someone all day, every day. Many carers live with the people they care for, or they may visit the person in their own home. This could be miles away or just around the corner. The job carers do can be stressful and tiring, sometimes lasting for years on end. Many carers remain hidden' and do not recognise themselves as doing anything extraordinary. They may feel they should be able to cope or they may feel guilty about asking for help. Carers are a shifting population and span every age and social group.
- National Census (2002) statistics would indicate that there are 11,059 carers in west Wiltshire.
- About half of the carers caring for more than 20 hours a week are likely to be over 65
- Carers Support West Wilts are in contact with approximately 1200 carers.
- Carers Support West Wilts is committed to providing information, advice and support to adult carers.
- Employing carer support workers who provide information, advice and confidential one to one support to carers
- Facilitating and organising five carers support groups each month.
- Providing carers with the opportunity to take a break from their caring role by organising outings and events. Carers are also given the opportunity to take part in training.
- Raising the awareness of carers' needs with health and social care colleagues.
- Producing information that is accessible to carers including a carers information pack and quarterly newsletters.
- Empowering and supporting carers to take part in the consultation process and development of services.
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