Part 1: The importance of carers

• Most patients prefer having 1 or 2 carers attend a consultation with them - sometimes more people than this is not practical or helpful.
• It is great if 1 or 2 carers can attend most of the consultations, this can help keep things consistent. But this may not be possible for some people. In this situation there may be a few carers who share the role.
  • It is recommended that (if okay with the patient) each of these carers are aware of the medical situation and are kept up to date with the information and decisions.

If you can, lean on those around you

• A wider network of family, friends and acquaintances may be involved in other ways in the care of the person with cancer (e.g. a friend may drive the patient to some treatment sessions; a sister may sit with them in the evening if they are in hospital).
• The support of these family members and friends can help reduce the load on you, as the primary carer.
• Some people don't have a large support network - if you find that all of the load is on you, ask to speak with the hospital/clinic social worker about strategies and supports that might be available.
• As a primary carer, you need to take time out where you can, and look after yourself as much as possible.
  • By looking after yourself, you are also actually looking after the person with cancer.
  • Learning to ask for and accept the help of your wider network can be really valuable.

On the next page is an optional activity, that can help you map out who may be involved in the care of the patient.