'Trust helps take the strain'

Published 4 Jun 2009 09:00 0 Comments

A RETIRED builder who cares for his sick wife says more needs to be done to help carers.

Dick O"Brien, 71, has looked after Brenda, 68, since she started suffering severe lung and other health problems three years ago.

Dick, who lives in Mayfair, Tilehurst, said: 'There is help out there but it is finding out where it is that is difficult in the first place. No-one comes and tells you.

'It is hard enough having to care for somebody without having to go begging.'

He added: 'Then there are so many forms to fill in for any kind of help - you want to be a genius to fill them all in. Sometimes you are pulling your hair out.'

After struggling to cope, Dick read about The Princess Royal Trust Carers" Service and got in touch.

He said: 'They came out and had a chat and that was it - I"ve been with them ever since. It takes the strain.

'They are my right hand. They are wonderful, wonderful people.

'Sometimes you feel like you are banging your head against a brick wall and need someone outside the family and they are there.'

The couple are also supported by charity Crossroads, which helped them with hospital transport.

Dick added: 'The social workers I have seen have been good but I think often their hands are tied. They come and see you and they know what the problem is but they have to have a meeting with their bosses and it is sometimes five or six weeks later before something is done. They should be able to just get on with it.'

He advises other carers to ask for help and said: 'You can"t feel sorry for yourself. You need lots and lots of backup.'

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This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 04 Jun 09

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