What we do

Manchester Carers Forum is led by unpaid carers so we know how it really feels to be a carer. We understand that caring for a loved one can be a rewarding experience, but highly stressful too. Carers spend their entire lives putting others first, and as a result can often end up feeling insignificant, isolated and ignored. Feelings of failure and anger, and of constant worry are common.

Our goal is to provide carers with a collective voice, and to provide the reassurance that someone is listening. Just knowing that someone cares can be a lifeline. With our support groups, training, mentoring and fun activities and advocacy for carers we aim to be that lifeline.

WE LISTEN TO YOU

Its important to us that carers have their voices heard. At Manchester Carers Forum, all our staff and volunteers are, or have been carers themselves. They are here to lend a listening ear and will point you in the right direction to find the information you need. If you ever feel overwhelmed please call the office on 0161 819 226 Monday-Thursday 10am-4pm & Friday 10am -2pm

SUPPORT GROUPS

Our support groups offer a safe environment where carers can discuss their experiences with other like-minded people and are a safe place to share thoughts, feelings, emotions and information. We have support groups in Central, South, North and East Manchester. We also have a specialised support group for carers of people with substance misuse issues.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

As a carer it is extremely important to look after yourself, as stress and tension can drain your energy levels and affect your health.

PRACTICAL HELP

We can also help with the practicalities of being a carer such as finding you the help that you need. This might be financial or legal support or even finding the right equipment that you need to help you with your caring role.

INFORMATION

As a carer it is important to be aware of your entitlements, the services available to you as well as financial and practical support. We work in partnership with many organisations across the local authority, so have experience in navigating our way through governmental policy and procedure. We can point you in the right direction and show you how to access the help you need.

CARERS BREAKS

Taking a break as a carer, can seem often seem an impossibility. It is extremely important to take some time out, take a rest and enjoy a break from time to time– without feeling guilty. To make sure that carers have a chance to take some leisure time, we organize day trips and mini-breaks throughout the year.