Connect to Support Hampshire

Written by AlisonFreemantle on Friday 23rd February 2024

Support for ‘sandwich carers’

How to access help for those juggling life’s demands

Many users of community pharmacies will be, or know of someone who is, a ‘sandwich carer’. Sandwich carers are those who care for both sick, disabled or older relatives and dependent children.

More than 72% of sandwich carers are aged between 35 - 54 years and are predominantly women. As this population are of working age and many juggle work alongside their caring responsibilities, it is important to reach out to these people in community spaces they might use – such as pharmacies – to help raise awareness of support available to them.

They may not see themselves as a carer, but help could still be available to support to make lives a little easier.

  • Many people juggle the responsibilities of looking after an adult (maybe someone older or with a disability who needs support or who is chronically ill) as well as looking after children.
  • People who find themselves in this position are called ‘sandwich carers’. However, some people don’t see themselves as carers - they’re simply looking after family.
  • Support is available to reduce emotional, practical, and financial challenges. This can help to stop the carer from missing out on special moments with friends, family, or a partner.

Visit Connect to Support Hampshire to quickly find information and advice about the help available.

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