Guilt stopping unpaid carers asking for help, Sussex charity warns
Age UK's West Sussex branch says around 70% of people looking after a loved one struggle with their mental or physical health
A Sussex charity's warning guilt is stopping unpaid carers asking for the help they need.
Age UK West Sussex, Brighton and Hove says around 70% of people looking after a loved one struggle with their mental or physical health - with many of them waiting until crisis point to ask for support.
It's as they encourage anyone caring for a loved one to reach out early.
"They want to be able to be seen to support their loved one as best they can for as long as they can, as independently as they can," explained Charlie Rayner, the charity's Head of Dementia and Extra care.
"So there is still this guilt with being able to reach out for that support when they need it most."
The charity also found that 1 in 7 unpaid carers are not aware of any type of support available to them.
Charlie added: “Family members sometimes find themselves working tirelessly to support loved ones without a break.
"This can be difficult and overwhelming, so we’d urge anyone in this situation to get in touch."
The charity offers respite groups across Bognor Regis, Rustington, Storrington, Horsham, Crawley, Burgess Hill and Brighton - with another hoped to open in the city by the end of the year.
"Knowing you don’t need to face dementia alone can make all the difference," said Charlie.