Discussion Boards I care for... Im New Here!

Im New Here!

By rachelsaka

Thu 22 Nov 2007 19:49

Hello everyone.
My name is Rachel, Im 23 and living in Yorkshire. Im new to both this site, and to the world of caring, but Im glad I have found this site and hope to be able to both contribute and support as much as I can!
My Mum is suffering with breast cancer, but was admitted to hospital 3 weeks ago with severe dehydration. As a result of this, she suffered seizures and is still being treated for infections in her body that just wont clear up.
She is hoping to be home in the next couple of weeks, but it will be a full time job caring for her as she is unable to walk unaided, and becomes very breathless and panicky. She finds it a huge task to get from her hospital bed to the commode next to her, and although Im sure (and hoping) she recovers, I know that Ill have a big task on my hands when she returns home, as I also have a 12 week old baby.

To get to my main point (sorry for the ramble!) I still want to be able to concentrate a little on myself, and was hoping to continue studying through distance learning. Does anybody know of any organisations who help to fund carers to learn? I did hope to return to work, but I have to put that to one side for the moment, but I really do hope that I may somehow be able to study.
I have been told that because Im recieving Maternity Allowance, that I'm not entitled to Carer's Allowance- is this true?

I look forward to contributing more to this site, and sending my best wishes to you all.
Many thanks,
Rachel

Replies

By Pysie

Re: Im New Here!
Thu 22 Nov 2007 22:45

Hi, Rachel,

I'm so sorry to hear about your Mum. It must be very difficult for you to combine caring for her with looking after a new baby. (Congratulations, by the way!)

If you look under 'Help for Carers' at the top of the page, you will find a heading 'Learning'. It includes the telephone number of someone who may be able to advise you about funding for education.

Alternatively, you local City or County Council will be able to advise you. There are two departments you should contact - Social Services (Carers) and Adult Education. Between them they should be able to arrange funding for a suitable course and give you and your Mum all the support you need.

As far as Maternity Benifit v Carers Allowance is concerned, I'm afraid the information you have been given is correct. Depending upon circumstance, you cannot normally claim the two together.

I do hope your Mum makes good progress. I have four friends who have all been through breast cancer and come out the other side.

Best wishes,
Pysie xxx

By Deb244

Re: Im New Here!
Fri 23 Nov 2007 13:48

Hi Rachel

Can I suggest you contact the Carers into Education project on 01223400387, they should be able to help.

Best Wishes

Debbie

By flashwheels: Re: Im New Here!
Tue 27 Nov 2007 09:52
I am also new and wish you all the best with your new baby. My mum had breast cancer and made a very good recovery.
Good Luck
Eve

By laptopbob

Re: Im New Here!
Tue 27 Nov 2007 16:03

Hi Rachel

On the education front - I have been guided towards the PRTC which is the Princess Royal Trust for Carers and looking at an Educational Bursary Fund - that's all I know at the mo but a clue for a direction.

Maybe let us know whatever you can pick up?
Regards

By Annruth: Re: Im New Here!
Mon 31 Dec 2007 01:39
Just a quick thought - have you considered the Open University? They have funding available, might be worth looking at?

By rachelsaka: Re: Im New Here!
Mon 31 Dec 2007 07:38
Hello
Many thanks for all of your replies. Unfortunately my Mum passed away on 29 November, so I never got to be a carer for her at home.
I wish you all the very best for 2008
Rachel xx

By Marion28

Re: Im New Here!
Mon 31 Dec 2007 12:00

Im sorry to hear for your loss, good luck with your future.

Happy New year.

Marion x

By cotula

Re: Im New Here!
Mon 31 Dec 2007 12:00

So sorry to read of your loss, rachelsaka.

Although I lost my Mum later in life than you, it was still extremely difficult. I am not saying 'I know how you feel', because no-one but you knows that, but I do know it will be tough for a while.

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