What next?

If you have been caring for a number of years you may be feeling very isolated and would like to link up with other former carers in a similar situation. Contact your local hospice to find out about support groups for former carers, or contact Action for Carers in Surrey. You can also speak to former carers on the Carers UK Forum.

How about returning to an interest or hobby, or perhaps learning a new skill? There may be some courses and training in your area. You may also find it a great way to meet new people with similar interests. 

During your caring role, you will have gained new skills which you may feel you want to put to good use. This could be through volunteering. Alternatively, you can contact your borough's social prescribing service to find out about local volunteer opportunities. 

Some former carers are keen to put the skills and knowledge they have acquired during their caring role to further use by exploring related volunteering opportunities. You can, for example, volunteer with Action for Carers in Surrey by helping out with administration, carer events, fundraising, or campaigning on behalf of carers. You might also consider working as a volunteer at your local hospice or hospital.

Alternatively, you may be ready to start or return to paid work. Think about what you would like to do and identify your skills and areas of interest. Then think about what jobs might match those skills and interests. Take a look at The National Careers Service to get information on the skills and qualifications needed for the jobs you are considering, as well as an online tool to help check out your skills. You can also go to nidirect or your local job centre for further guidance on getting back into the workplace as a carer.

Surrey Care Trust is a local charity providing training, learning, and mentoring for people overcoming disadvantages and transforming their skills for life, learning, and work.  

For more general information see Marie Curie.