If you are a carer, we can help with…
Employer support
Carers Count are raising awareness of the growing need to support and reach out to employees who juggle working and provide unpaid care, whether that is for a family member, friend or neighbour.
We encourage employers to become carer friendly workplaces, supporting staff and enabling them to continue working while juggling care.
This has huge benefits for organisations, which can be seen in the Carers UK business case. The key is to prevent loss of valuable talent.
How we help
- Raising awareness of caring and issues working carers face in the workplace
- Identifying, engaging and supporting carers in the workplace
- Providing online resources to help support you as an employer and your staff who care, including guides, toolkits, e-learning, templates, wellbeing support, testimonials and more
- Providing all staff with carer awareness training, both online and in-person
- Working in collaboration with your local carer support service to support employers
Lunch and Learn sessions
Our Lunch and Learn sessions are a great way for carers to find out what support and information is available to them in their caring role. We have two Lunch and Learn sessions coming up next spring, book now to reserve your spot.
- Planning for tomorrow – 18th November, 1-2pm
What is unpaid carers leave?
Carers have the right to take an additional one week’s unpaid leave from their job every 12 months if they need it to care for their dependent. The leave can be taken in single or half days with only three days’ notice, giving flexibility to carers for any urgent needs of their loved ones.
Employers cannot refuse the leave, but it can be postponed where it is believed that the operations of the business would be seriously disrupted.
How do I know if I’m entitled to the leave?
To be entitled to the carer’s leave, you must care for a loved one with a long-term care need. This means they must have a physical or mental illness that requires care for more than three months, a disability that is stated under the Equality Act of 2010, or require care for reasons connected with their old age.
Is there a minimum probation requirement?
There is no minimum probation requirement to be entitled to this leave. Employees can request this leave from the start of their employment.
Useful links
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Need more info? Leave your details and we’ll get back in touch.
Digital Inclusion
Do you need help brushing up on your digital skills? Do you have a phone, tablet, or laptop that you’re not making the most of? Would you like a friendly face to guide you through using the NHS app, booking an online food shop, or other digital tasks?
If you answered YES our Carers Count Calderdale Digital Inclusion for Carers Service can help you.
We provide a wide range of digital support – whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience but need help with a specific query. From personalised support to structured six-week courses, we’re here to support your learning journey.
Personalised Advice & Guidance
Already comfortable with your device, but need help with something specific? Our Digital Inclusion Coordinator can:
- Offer personalised advice
- Signpost you to online services
- Support you with areas you want to improve
Six Week Novice Digital Skills Course
If you would like to learn more about technology or brush up on your existing skills, our six-week courses offer face-to-face support with a Digital Inclusion Coordinator, covering a variety of beginner-friendly topics to help you build confidence.
These courses will be taking place in Halifax and Todmorden on a Monday 10am – 12 noon.
Contact us for course dates and details
Digital Inclusion service leaflet: Carers Count Calderdale Digital Inclusion Leaflet
To make a referral, download our application form here and email it us at calderdale@carerscount.org.uk or post to: Suite 6b, Rimani House, 14 – 16 Hall Street, Halifax. HX1 5BD
How to connect safely to the internet
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/top-tips-for-staying-secure-online
How you can better secure the ways you connect to the internet
https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/office/be-safer-over-wireless-connections-2614313a-7330-4d18-b619-0abec460fcba
A beginner’s guide to email
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/siteassets/documents/digital-instruction-guides/a-beginners-guide-to-email.pdf
How to download an app
- Personal computer
https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/account-billing/get-apps-from-microsoft-store-on-your-windows-pc-f69412b3-3e5c-9122-1e87-820bd718058a - Android smartphone or tablet
https://support.google.com/googleplay/answer/113409?hl=en-GB - Apple smartphone or tablet
https://support.apple.com/en-gb/102590
Using passwords to protect your devices & data
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/files/NCSC-using-passwords-infographic.pdf
Managing your passwords
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/top-tips-for-staying-secure-online/password-managers
How to complete a search using an internet browser
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zmr76rd
How to connect safely to the internet
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/top-tips-for-staying-secure-online
How you can better secure the ways you connect to the internet
https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/office/be-safer-over-wireless-connections-2614313a-7330-4d18-b619-0abec460fcba
A beginner’s guide to email
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/siteassets/documents/digital-instruction-guides/a-beginners-guide-to-email.pdf
How to download an app
- Personal computer
https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/account-billing/get-apps-from-microsoft-store-on-your-windows-pc-f69412b3-3e5c-9122-1e87-820bd718058a - Android smartphone or tablet
https://support.google.com/googleplay/answer/113409?hl=en-GB - Apple smartphone or tablet
https://support.apple.com/en-gb/102590
Using passwords to protect your devices & data
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/files/NCSC-using-passwords-infographic.pdf
Managing your passwords
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/top-tips-for-staying-secure-online/password-managers
How to complete a search using an internet browser
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zmr76rd
Help and support for the NHS App
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/nhs-app-help-and-support/
Help and support with PATCHS
https://help.patchs.ai/hc/en-gb/sections/360010734994-Accessing-Patchs
What is a scam and how to avoid them
https://www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk/mint-project/uploads/420214897.pdf
How to avoid being scammed (booklet)
https://www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk/mint-project/uploads/464934376.pdf
Tips for staying safe online
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/top-tips-for-staying-secure-online
Online Training
Learn My Way is a free training resource. It is based on modules which are broken down into sections to complete in bitesize pieces. There is also no test or exam at the end.
You can log on at learn my way and register. During registration you will be asked for your hub site which is: Carers Count Calderdale
How to register at Learn My Way
https://www.goodthingsfoundation.org/discover/digital-inclusion-resources/learning-and-skills/how-to-register-on-learn-my-way
Free SIM cards with data
If you meet one or more of the following:
• On a low income through work or on benefits
• Have insufficient internet access at home or away
• Cannot afford monthly contract or top-up fees.
Contact the team on Call us on 01422 369101 or Email us at calderdale@carerscount.org.uk for more information
How to access free Microsoft Office software
https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/microsoft-365/free-office-online-for-the-web
Free tech support & information for disabled and older people
https://abilitynet.org.uk/free-tech-support-and-info
Digital support
If you are struggling with technology and need help accessing the internet, online groups, or other services, Carers Count can offer support.
Additionally, you can explore excellent guides tailored for carers at beginner, intermediate, or expert levels in technology by visiting the Mobilise website: Mobilise – Digital Skills for Carers.
How to access virtual meetings
We frequently offer webinars for carers, host our popular Lunch and Learn sessions (insert link), and occasionally run online support groups.
To join an online meeting, you will need an email address. Carers Scotland has a great video on how to set one up here: Carer Scotland – Setting Up Email for Beginners
Our meetings are held on Teams or Zoom. For simple instructions on how to join a Zoom or Teams meeting, please watch the following videos:
Joining a Zoom Meeting – YouTube
How to join a Microsoft Teams meeting | Microsoft – YouTube
Need more info? Leave your details and we’ll get back in touch.
Need more info? Leave your details and we’ll get back in touch.
Courses for Carers
At Carers Count Calderdale we run free courses for carers throughout the year. They are specifically for people who care for someone else.
Each course will run six stand alone sessions per year and these usually last between 2 to 2 ½ hours. They are held in various venues in Calderdale. A carer does not have to attend all of the sessions.
If any of the courses are of interest to you it is important to be aware that although each session is self-contained, we do ask that you commit to the six weeks, if that is manageable for you at that time. If it is not, there may be another time that is more suitable, and we can look at that with you.
We cover subjects such as:
- Self-carer and Wellbeing
- Building Resilience in caring
- End of life
- Introduction to benefits
We take time to discuss and explore the subject in each session and carers who have attended previous courses have fed back how much they appreciate having this time and it how well this works for them.
We keep the number of participants small which ensures each carer can contribute and share within the safe space offered by the course.
These sessions are all about you and aimed at your own self-carer and wellbeing. The course will cover some of the issues and struggles you may face within your own caring responsibilities.
To find out more about our courses please contact us.
Need more info? Leave your details and we’ll get back in touch.
Need more info? Leave your details and we’ll get back in touch.
Information / Resources (downloads & links)
Veterans
Here, you will find valuable links and resources to organisations dedicated to supporting those who care for veterans and active members of the armed forces, including the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force. These resources are designed to assist not only the veterans and service members but also their families, ensuring comprehensive support for all involved.
National services and resources
Autism
If you are caring for a loved one with Autism, we can support you with financial, health and wellbeing advice and practical guidance to help you access the services you need to lighten the load.
From local support groups to national resources and even benefits assessments, if our team can’t help with your specific requirements, we will signpost you to the service that best suits your needs.
Local services and resources
National services and resources
Bereavement
Losing someone that we care for affects everyone differently. We understand that during such a difficult time you may need help to manage both the emotional and practical demands that come with that loss.
Our team is on hand to guide you on how to access the right support for your particular needs. We also offer continued assistance and support once you have stopped caring, for whatever reason.
Here, you can access dedicated resources and support tailored specifically for those going through a bereavement.
National services and resources
Cancer
Watching someone you care for go through cancer or going through cancer yourself can be incredibly challenging. Here, you will find a list of organisations that can offer support and assistance.
National services and resources
Care planning and support
Care planning is crucial because it ensures that both the carer and the person they care for receive the necessary support. Below are some helpful organisations and resources for support and care planning.
Marie Curie Helper West Yorkshire
The Marie Curie Helper Service is a befriending service offering face-to-face visits giving companionship, emotional support, practical help and respite support. They have a team of volunteers, both male and female, with ages that range from 18 to 80 and they have speakers of Urdu, Hindu. Punjabi and Portuguese. Their volunteers are fully trained, and DBS checked and provide weekly three-hour visits offering everything from a chat and a cup of tea with someone to visiting the theatre. Matches with volunteers are made carefully with a volunteer in their locality and with similar interests and hobbies. Referrals can be easily made by either emailing frances.glover@mariecurie.org.uk or phoning 07747 631097.
National services and resources
Carer Wellbeing
We know that being a carer can be both rewarding and isolating. It’s vital that you know where to get the right support to make sure that your own health and wellbeing don’t suffer in your caring role.
We’re here to help you access support, groups, courses, and wellbeing sessions to help give you that bit of headspace. Looking after your own health and wellbeing is important for you and the person you care for.
National services and resources
Creative Activities
Here you will find a wide range of activities to help you relax and enhance your wellbeing a carer.
National services and resources
Dementia and Alzheimer’s
We recognise that caring for a loved one, family member or friend with dementia or Alzheimer’s can bring its own set of unique challenges. We understand that the support you need changes over time and can often be hard to predict. They are many services and support networks available to support you as a carer and the person you are caring for.
Local services and resources
National services and resources
Digital Support
In today’s digital age, everything is online. Here, you’ll find resources to help you get connected and navigate the online world with ease.
National services and resources
Domestic Abuse
Here, you will find a list of local and national organisations dedicated to helping individuals affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. These organisations offer a range of services, including crisis intervention, counselling, support, and safe housing. Whether you need immediate assistance or ongoing support, these resources are designed to provide the help and guidance you need to navigate these challenging situations. Remember, you are not alone, and there are people and services ready to support you every step of the way.
National services and resources
Education
Here you will find information regarding educational opportunities for carers.
National services and resources
Emergency Planning
Falling ill is something that can happen to anyone. For carers, this can bring added anxiety about leaving their loved ones without support. While it’s natural to worry, creating a contingency plan can help ease these fears by ensuring someone is available to provide care in your absence.
National services and resources
Employment
Here you will find resources to support you during employment.
National services and resources
End of life
Here you will find resources and support to help you navigate caring for someone with a terminal illness.
National services and resources
Finance and Housing
Here you will find a wealth of useful information and resources to help you navigate finance and housing when caring for someone or living with ill health, mental ill-health or a disability.
National services and resources
Later life
Here you will find valuable help and support for caring for someone in the later stages of their lives. Whether you’re a family member, friend, or professional caregiver, these resources are designed to provide guidance and assistance.
National services and resources
Learning Disabilities
Welcome! Here you will find valuable help and support for caring for someone with a learning disability. Whether you’re a family member, friend, or professional caregiver, these resources are designed to provide guidance and assistance.
Local services and resources
National services and resources
Mental ill-Health and Drug and Alcohol Dependency
Here you can find a wealth of useful resources to help you care for someone with mental ill-health and drug and alcohol dependency. Whether you’re a family member, friend, or professional caregiver, these resources are designed to provide guidance and support.
National services and resources
Parent carers
Here you will find a variety of useful resources specifically designed to support parent carers. Whether you’re caring for a child with special needs, a chronic illness, or any other condition, these resources aim to provide guidance, support, and practical advice.
National services and resources
- Endorphins UK
- Send – preparing for adulthood
- Carers UK Fact Sheet
- Information for Parents of Disabled Children England
- SENTAS – Special Needs Transport
Local services and resources
Safeguarding
Here you will find a variety of safeguarding resources designed to help protect and support individuals, especially vulnerable groups such as children, elderly, and those with disabilities. These resources aim to ensure safety, well-being, and rights are upheld.
National services and resources
Sensory Impairment
Here you will find valuable help and support for caring for someone with a sensory impairment. Whether you’re a family member, friend, or professional caregiver, these resources are designed to provide guidance and assistance.
National services and resources
Young Carers
Here you will find a variety of resources to support young carers.
Local services and resources
- Calderdale Young Carers
- Invictus Wellbeing
- Youth Works
- Safespace – Healthy Minds
- Safespace – Healthy Minds
National services and resources
