Mina’s Story: Breaking Language Barriers to Find Support

Mina, a Bangladeshi woman in her late 50s, was caring full-time for her elderly father with complex health needs. She spoke limited English, felt isolated, and was unaware of her rights as a carer or how to access support. Believing she had to manage alone, she was becoming increasingly overwhelmed.

Our Carer Support Officer:

• Arranged a Bengali interpreter for her initial assessment, held in her local community centre – a familiar and safe space.
• Provided translated information about her entitlements and referred her to Welfare Rights, enabling her to apply for Carer’s Allowance.
• Advised on requesting an Adult Social Care Needs Assessment for her father, including information on Direct Payments and the PA register to help find a language-matched carer.
• Introduced Rina to our South Asian carers peer group, where she connected with others from similar backgrounds.
• Arranged regular online sessions with a Bengali-speaking Carer Champion to provide ongoing, flexible support.
• Encouraged her to attend Carers Clinic drop-in sessions, giving her time with fellow carers while her father took part in supported activities.
• Offered Mina a free Blue Sky Social Care Card, which demonstrates her role as a carer and provides access to discounts both online and on the high street.

Outcomes:

• Mina is now receiving financial support through Carer’s Allowance.
• She is progressing through a social care assessment for her father, opening up access to funded support.
• She has joined a peer community where she feels understood, connected, and supported.
• Her father now benefits from social interaction and days out with other Bengali-speaking individuals.
• With respite opportunities and new friendships, Rina has more confidence, reduced isolation, and time for herself.
• The Blue Sky Social Care Card has helped Rina feel recognised in her caring role while also easing her financial pressures through everyday discounts.