My Story as a Dementia Carer
This time last year, I was exhausted. Life felt like it was out of control. My Mom had recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and although the diagnosis finally put a name to our struggles, it didn’t prepare me for the emotional and practical rollercoaster that followed. I was tired, stressed, tearful—and completely unsure of where to turn.
Initially, we managed. We followed the GP’s advice, arranged Power of Attorney, and life carried on relatively normally. But as Mom’s needs grew, I reduced my hours at work to care for her. Thankfully, my employer knew the pressures of caring and supported me through their Carers Policy, allowing flexible working hours.
One of the few bright spots in those early days was our local dementia café. Mom loved the arts and crafts and the cake, of course! For me, it was a chance to breathe, to connect with others in similar situations, and to realise I wasn’t alone.
It was at one of those sessions that everything changed. I was having what I can only describe as a quiet meltdown. I confided in another attendee, Amy, who was also caring for her mother. That conversation was a turning point. Amy helped me realise that I wasn’t “just” a daughter—I was a Carer. And as a Carer, I was entitled to support.
She told me about Birmingham Carers Hub, and with some encouragement, I registered. That simple step marked the beginning of a major shift in both mindset and support.
Understanding the Support I Needed
I was initially apprehensive about the Carer’s Assessment, fearing it would judge how well I was “performing” as a Carer. But the advisor quickly put me at ease. It was a conversation—an honest, supportive chat about how I was coping and what help was available.
Through Birmingham Carers Hub, I was introduced to the Dementia Carers Hub, a specialised support pathway for those caring for someone with dementia. I began attending awareness sessions and joined a support group exclusively for Carers—people like me.
The advisor also guided me on practical next steps: using the benefits calculator to check what financial support I could receive, registering as a Carer with my GP, and signing up with CERS (Carers Emergency Response Service), just in case something unexpected happened.
A New Chapter: Healthier, Stronger, Connected
Today, my life looks and feels very different. Thanks to the tailored activities provided through Birmingham Carers Hub, I’ve discovered new ways to care for both my Mom and myself. I regularly attend Tai Chi and yoga sessions, which have done wonders for my mental and physical health.
Having a Carers ID Card means I can enjoy quiet, restorative visits to Winterbourne Gardens—free of charge. It’s also a discreet way to access concessions, avoiding uncomfortable explanations in front of my Mom.
What’s made the biggest difference is knowing I’m not alone. I’ve built a network of friends, gained confidence through learning, and begun to embrace my identity as a Carer.
Sharing Hope With Others
Sometimes, all it takes is one honest conversation or a moment of vulnerability to uncover a world of support. If you’re helping a loved one—whether it’s a partner, child, parent, neighbour or friend—know that there is help, guidance, and community waiting for you.
Birmingham Carers Hub is more than a service it’s a lifeline.
