We help Carers to make a life of their own outside caring by providing quality services offering peace of mind while they take some time to themselves. Crossroads Care Kent supports Carers by offering high quality replacement care for people who have care needs, allowing a Carer to have time to themselves to work, rest or play, knowing that their family member/friend is being well cared for. The service reduces Carers' stress levels and tiredness, helps Carers to remain in employment, and prevents or delays the need for residential care or social services intervention. The support we offer can include all areas of personal care of the person with a disability or illness, as well as care related tasks such as preparing simple meals. Once referred Crossroads Care staff will meet with both the Carer and the person they care for to discuss and plan a short breaks service that meets both their needs. This may be a regular weekly break but sometimes longer or more frequent support may be necessary and this is arranged at a time to best suit the family. The family are then introduced to a carer support worker who as far as possible, remains the regular staff member for that family. During a Crossroads Care visit a Carer has the option of either staying at home, relieved of their caring responsibilities for a while, or they may prefer to go out alone or with friends in order to maintain a life of their own. During this time the Crossroads carer support worker stays with the dependant person, spending quality time with them. Some families may need additional support to go out together, perhaps to a social event or to attend a health appointment. The aim of a Crossroads Care service is to offer regular help and support to prevent a breakdown in the health of the Carer which in turn, will help someone who needs care, stay at home for longer. As a charity Crossroads Care works closely with the local authority, health service and other voluntary organisations to add to the services that already exist but not to replace them. Crossroads Care is available throughout Kent. Referrals can be made by anyone, including Carers themselves, by telephone or in person.
