Lisa and Peter
Among Derbyshire's carers is Lisa Nicholls, 51, from Ripley, who is a carer for her husband Peter, 67, who has anxiety and agoraphobia - a fear of not being able to escape - which prevents him from going outside without support.
Lisa hasn’t always seen herself as a carer and she didn’t think about asking for help until her husband’s community support worker told her about the support they offer to carers through the Derbyshire Carers Association (DCA) and put them in touch.
“The lines become very blurred when you’re someone’s spouse but you’re looking after them at the same time,”
explained Lisa.
“I’m a confident and capable person but when you’re used to being the one giving the help, it’s hard to ask for it for yourself.
“The support we’ve received from DCA has been fantastic.
“We had a carer’s assessment, and I received a carer personal budget from the council which is to help make life easier for carers. We bought some passes for English Heritage so we could have some days out as a family and enjoy the fresh air together.
"When you’re used to being the one giving the help, it’s hard to ask for it yourself."
Lisa added:
“It made such a positive impact on our family life and mental health.”
The couple, who have 2 teenagers, Axl, 18, and 17-year-old Joe, have even formed a local singing group for other carers.
Peter said:
“We’re so much more than just a singing group – we’re a family. We love to help other carers and their loved ones, and we can signpost them to advice and information too.”