Anna's story

VOCAL - the Voice of Carers Across Lothian

VOCAL Carers Centre, 8-13 Johnston Terrace, EDINBURGH, EH1 2PW

T. 0131 622 7625. F. 0131 622 7621. E. centre@vocal.org.uk

Anna's story

“VOCAL really changed my life. The support provided helped me to cope. Us carers really need VOCAL.”

We support thousands of carers in Edinburgh and the Lothians each year. This is the story of one carer we have helped. Perhaps we can help you..?

Anna has spent a large part of her life as a carer. She cares for her daughter Marie, who has learning disabilities. Anna had previously cared for her housebound father who lived on his own. During the early part of her caring experience, Anna received little support from statutory services for her caring responsibilities. She felt alone and isolated.

Things became difficult for Anna when she and Marie moved into a new flat in 1995. Marie’s reluctance to go out in windy weather posed severe limitations on Anna’s activities. Anna found it difficult getting help to assist with her caring.

Anna approached VOCAL in 1997. Through the use of VOCAL’s services, Anna’s situation changed. Firstly, Anna felt listened to and supported. With the help of one of VOCAL’s trained advocates, Anna began to feel able to speak up in meetings with health and social work professionals. She gained confidence in challenging things she found unfair and in arguing her case for services. With VOCAL’s help, Anna managed to get a sitter for Marie. This has made a huge difference to Anna’s quality of life, giving her time and space to do other things.

VOCAL has also supported Anna in a number of other ways. Through the Princess Royal Trust for Carers, we helped acquire funds for a holiday to Blackpool for both Anna and Marie. The holiday not only provided a chance for fun and relaxation, but had a beneficial effect on Marie’s personal development. Additionally, Anna attended a course offered by VOCAL that dealt with looking to the future with an adult with learning disabilities. The course provided Anna with information, and introduced her to a network of other carers with similar experiences.

Perhaps we can help you? Find our contact details at the top of this page.

VOCAL is the voice of carers across Lothian. This site was last updated: 10 February 2005.

This web site uses Portable Document Format - PDF. S ight difficulties? Try 'Access Adobe'.

Please note: links to external web sites and to our publications will open in separate windows.