Latest News and Info

Taking time for me when also a carer – Blog

Time for me

Are you a carer and struggle taking care of your own health too?  You are not alone.  Many carers say they are unable to prioritise themselves whilst supporting someone else.

However, having a break and looking after yourself, not only helps you but also the person you care for.

“When you spend a lot of your time focusing on someone else, you may feel as if you have no time for yourself. But looking after your own wellbeing is important for you and for them.” Mind.org

Many people wonder how to start focusing on themselves.

According to NHS.uk  “evidence suggest there are 5 steps you can take to improve your mental health and wellbeing.  Trying these things could help you feel more positive and able to get the most out of life. “

These are:

  1. Connect with other people.
  2. Be physically active
  3. Learn new skills
  4. Give to others
  5. Pay attention to the present moment (mindfulness)

Go to the link below to find more information and steps to improve your wellbeing.

5 steps to mental wellbeing – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Obviously it is not easy doing these things if you don’t have any respite from your caring role. If you live in Blackburn with Darwen contact us 01254 6688440 to discuss.

Contact – Blackburn with Darwen Carers Service (bwdcarers.org.uk)

If you live in another area search for your local carers service for support.

Pet Therapy and Dementia – Blog

Can a pet help someone with dementia?

Many people with dementia find their pet to be an invaluable support.  Their pet may provide them with a purpose and companionship.   However, there may be times a person with dementia struggles to look after their pet.  It can be difficult to know what is best.

According to Alzheimers.org.uk there are a number of things to consider before adopting a pet for a person with dementia.  These are:

  1. Do they have mental capacity to decide if they want a pet or not?  In order to make this decision they will need to understand the commitment involved.
  2. Will the person be able to meet the needs of the animal?
  3. Some breeders, rescue centres and pet shops will be hesitant to sell a pet to someone with dementia.
  4. Not all people with dementia enjoy interacting with animals. Some may be afraid of animals or feel aggravated by them.
  5. Would the person benefit from semi-regular interactions with a pet.  Maybe visits from a friends or family members pet may be a good compromise

To view the main article from alzheimers.org.uk click on the link below:

Animal companions: can caring for a pet help a person with dementia? | Alzheimer’s Society (alzheimers.org.uk)

If you care for someone with dementia and you, or they live in Blackburn with Darwen call us today for advice and support on 01254 688440.

Or visit us at www.bwdcarers.org.uk

Power of Attorney – Blog

What is Power of Attorney?

A lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document.  It allows someone you have selected in advance, to make decisions about your health care or finances, if you were unable to make decisions for yourself. You can apply for LPA for (1) Health and Welfare or (2) Property and Financial Affairs or (3) both.

How will it help me?

Having this legal document means the person you have selected can take over on your behalf, and ensure your wishes and instructions are adhered to when you are unable to do this yourself.  Once someone has lost mental capacity it is far more difficult for the families to sort out their affairs if there is no LPA in place.

How do I get it?

You can apply for on the gov.uk/power-of attorney website.  You do not need a to have a solicitor but in complicated cases this may be advisable.  Once you have completed the LPA forms you must register the forms with the Office of The Public Guardian.  There is a cost involved in doing this. 

If you would like support in completing the forms The Carers Service offers an information and form filling service.  For full information on our LPA service please click on the link below.

Lasting Power of Attorney – Blackburn with Darwen Carers Service (bwdcarers.org.uk)

You can also get advice on LPA from the organisations below:

Registered Charity No. 1120110 | Company No. 05881757
AgencyForGood

Copyright 2025. All Rights Reserved

Blackburn with Darwen Carers Service