Parent-Carer Journey

A parent-carer, supporting her adult son with complex needs full time, was becoming increasingly isolated and struggling with the lack of respite and ongoing support. She felt overwhelmed navigating services and their direct payment, had no regular breaks, and was uncertain about how to access the right help for both herself and her son.

Our Derby Carer Support Officer:

• Created a personalised support plan tailored to her caring role.
• Signposted her to Welfare Rights for updated benefit checks for both herself and her son.
• Encouraged her to re-engage with her social worker and request an updated carers’ assessment.
• Supported her in obtaining a reassessment for Direct Payments, resulting in allocated hours for a Personal Assistant to help meet her son’s needs.
• Signposted her to Blue Sky Brokers for support with PA recruitment.
• Supported her son’s referral to the Enabled Centre, which provided structured activities for him and much-needed respite for his mum.
• Connected her with a local parent-carer peer support group to reduce isolation and build community links.
• Offered her a free Blue Sky Social Care Card, which demonstrates her role as a carer and provides access to discounts both online and on the high street.

Outcomes after six months:

• The carer established regular connections within her carers’ group, reducing feelings of isolation.
• She secured two days of regular respite while her son attended the day centre.
• With Direct Payment hours in place, she was able to employ a Personal Assistant to provide additional support.
• She reported feeling more confident navigating services and better supported in her caring role.
• The Blue Sky Social Care Card gave her formal recognition as a carer while helping ease financial pressures through everyday discounts.