Angus Carers Association is an organisation established by carers, for carers. The Association was established in October 1996 and became part of the Royal Princess Trust for Carers network in November 1997, then becoming known as “Angus Carers Centre” read more

Our Services

A wide range of services are available through the centre to all registered carers in and around the Angus area.

We also provide additional specific services for:

• Young Carers (http://www.angusyoungcarers.co.uk/)
• Carers of someone who misuses Alcohol or Drugs
• Parent Carers
• Carers who are new to caring, or are facing a major change in their caring role

All of our services are confidential and free of charge, although donations are always welcome! Contact us for details of how to access any of our services.

Information

We can provide carers with information on a wide range of issues including benefits, respite and services available to carers.

Emotional Support

Our staff understand the stresses of caring for a family member and can offer a sympathetic ear and support either in the home or outwith the home setting.

Stress Management

Stress management training courses are delivered on a regular basis at locations throughout Angus. This short two and a half hour course is excellent for providing an insight into managing stress and introducing coping strategies, which can help carers. In addition, carer support workers can work with carers on an individual basis.

Carers Support Groups

There are a number of informal support groups for carers, which meet throughout Angus. Follow the more information link for details.

Pampering Days

On average on a twice yearly basis, Pampering Sessions for carers are provided in conjunction with Angus College. These provide carers with the opportunity to take time out from their routine and be well and truly pampered and also time to meet with other carers. Angus College students will offer hair styling, manicures, pedicures and facials. The day is rounded off with an excellent lunch in the college restaurant.

Sitting / Befriending Service

Angus Carers Centre currently offer a sitting / befriending service to allow carers to have a break from their caring role. This will involve a volunteer sitter / befriender sitting with the cared-for person to allow the carer some well-deserved respite. There is no charge for this service. The "sit" may be done in the carers' own home or at the home of the cared for and will be up to two hours on a weekly or fortnightly basis.

Quarterly Newsletter

A comprehensive newsletter is published on a quarterly basis and sent to all carers who registered with the centre as well as many professionals within the region who have an interest in carers. The newsletter contains details of upcoming events and activities a well as a range of articles which we feel are relevant to carers.

Counselling Service

Carers can have deep emotional issues with which they deal. We can offer a counselling service to assist carers to come to terms with life-changing situations.

Relaxation Therapies

Understanding the stress which carers can be under, we offer opportunities to access reflexology and therapeutic massage sessions.

Benefits Advice

Carer Support Workers are trained to provide advice to carers regarding benefits as well as offer assistance in the completion of any relevant forms etc. In addition, trained staff from the Citizens Advice Bureau attend the centre on a monthly basis to operate a drop-in service.

Specific support and advice for parent carers

A parent carer is anyone who provides care and support to a child under 18 who is ill, has a disability or any additional needs. As a parent, caring for a child with disabilities and/or special needs and requirements can be very rewarding. But even when you willingly take on the task it's still hard work. You may have times when there is too much to do, you may have no social life or time for yourself. Financial issues may also arise as a result of being unable to work. Angus Carers Centre offers a wide range of help, advice and support specifically targeted to meet the needs of Parent Carers.

Specific support and advice for carers affected by someone's alcohol or drug problem.

A trained support worker is currently employed within the centre to provide specialised support and advice to carers who currently support someone who misuses drugs or alcohol. This support can be provided on a one-to-one basis, or through one of the support groups which currently meet on a fortnightly basis for carers of people who misuse drugs or alcohol.

Training for Carers

Often a carer finds themselves in a caring situation for which they have not been prepared or feel that they lack the skills needed. We can organise or access training to support a carer in this situation.

Social Events

We offer a range events and activities aimed specifically at carers. These can provide a welcome break from caring and the chance to meet others in a similar situation. “Carers’ Cuppy Time” takes place regularly at various locations throughout Angus and have proved popular with carers who want to get together and chat with other carers over a tea and scones. We also offer occasional day trips for carers, with the latest trips being to The Royal Yacht Brittania, and The Scottish Parliament.

Details of upcoming events can be found in the events calendar

Support for Young Carers

You can read more about the support we offer to young carers in the community by visiting our Young Carers Website.