Planning Ahead
When you are caring for someone, thinking about the future can feel uncomfortable. However, planning ahead provides reassurance and stability for both you and the person you care for.
Having plans in place does not mean expecting the worst. It means being prepared, reducing stress, and ensuring continuity of care if circumstances change.
Emergency Care Planning
An emergency care plan sets out what should happen if something unexpected occurs.
This might include:
- Your contact details
- Details of the person you care for
- Medication information
- GP and professional contacts
- Any risks or specific needs
- Who should be contacted in an emergency
It can help to:
- Keep a written plan in an accessible place
- Share copies with trusted family or friends
- Inform key professionals that a plan exists
A What If? Plan (also called a Contingency Plan) helps make sure the person you care for continues to receive the support they need if you are suddenly unable to provide care.
If You Suddenly Cannot Care
Illness, injury or an urgent situation may mean you cannot continue caring temporarily.
In this situation:
- Contact your local authority adult social care team
- Inform other family members or trusted contacts
- Notify relevant professionals such as the GP
Planning ahead by identifying backup carers or short term care options can reduce panic if this happens.
If you are unsure who to contact, our team can help you explore emergency support arrangements.
Hospital admissions & Discharge
If the person you care for is admitted to hospital, your role remains important.
You may wish to:
- Inform staff that you are the main carer
- Share relevant medical and personal information
- Ask to be involved in discharge planning
Before discharge:
- Confirm what support will be in place at home
- Clarify medication changes
- Ask who to contact if problems arise
Discharge should be safe and appropriate. If you feel unprepared for someone to return home, raise your concerns before discharge takes place.
Care Contingency Plans
A contingency plan outlines what happens if circumstances change over time.
Planning may involve:
- Reviewing care packages
- Exploring respite options
- Considering adaptations to the home
- Seeking financial advice
Regularly reviewing your situation can help you adapt gradually rather than reacting in crisis.
This could include:
- Increased care needs
- Changes in your own health
- Financial pressures
- Changes in living arrangements
Planning for Long Term Change
Care needs can evolve. Planning ahead helps you consider possible future scenarios without pressure.
You may wish to think about:
- Whether current care arrangements are sustainable
- Alternative support options
- Housing considerations
- Legal arrangements such as Lasting Power of Attorney
Taking early steps allows more choice and control.
If your Caring Situation has changed
We can support you if your caring situation has recently changed, including:
- Emotional support
- Bereavement signposting
- Bereavement Grants
- Help planning next steps
- Guidance around returning to work or education
- Volunteering Opportunities
End of Life Support
When someone has a life limiting condition, planning can help ensure their wishes are respected.
This may include:
- Discussing preferences for care
- Exploring advance care planning
- Understanding available support services
- Accessing palliative care where appropriate
These conversations can be emotional, but they often provide clarity and reassurance for everyone involved.
If you would like guidance on starting these discussions, we can provide information and signposting.
We Can Help you Plan
Planning ahead can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone.
If you would like:
- Support creating an emergency plan
- Advice on contingency planning
- Help understanding local services
- Guidance around long term decisions
Please contact our Carers Support Team.