A care home in West Drayton is providing support for people caring for a loved one after finding that 75% feel ‘overwhelmed’ by their caring responsibilities.

Franklin House, off Richards Close, has launched “A Helping Hand” - a guide packed with practical and emotional advice and support, after surveying 1,000 people who care for, or have responsibility for, someone over the age of 55.

The easy-to-follow guide has been designed to support those who care, and pools the expertise of Care UK’s care colleagues and fellow carers.

The study found that 36% of carers in London said they never or don’t often ask for help with caring responsibility.

A further 32% admitted that they weren’t aware that there was government support available. 

The guide provides information on the rights of carers and the help they are entitled to, as well as offering ways for them to continue delivering great care for their loved one while keeping themselves happy and healthy.

Carers are also offered information on what to consider and how to proceed should they wish to explore respite or permanent residential care for their loved one.

Television presenter Ruth Langsford said: “It is sad but not surprising to hear about the pressure family carers put on them when looking after a loved one.

“My mum looked after my dad for ten years as his primary carer before we sought help and a guide such as A Helping Hand would have provided some help and comfort for us at a difficult time.”

The study also revealed that 33 per cent of respondents in London admitted that they neglect their own wellbeing due to time being taken up by caring responsibilities.

A further 44 per cent also said that they neglect their relationship with their partner, and 23 per cent even added their relationship with their children was negatively impacted.

Mathew V Mathew, home manager at Franklin House, said: “Caring for someone can be incredibly rewarding, though it can also be physically and emotionally demanding.

“We want to remind people that if they’re caring for an older relative or friend, it’s important to remember that they may feel isolated or overwhelmed at times - but this is natural, and they are not alone.

For more information on Franklin House please contact Mathew V Mathew, home manager on, 03300 572 255 or email mathew.mathew@careuk.com.

Free copies of "A Helping Hand" can be picked up from Franklin House.

For more general information, please go to careuk.com/franklin-house.

A Helping Hand is the latest in a series of advice guides for family carers from Care UK. For information on other available guides, please go to careuk.com