New podcast aims to help carers learn more about financial support

A SIX-part podcast series has been launched to help the hundreds of thousands of people expected to become carers for ageing relatives every year.

The idea originates from Annabel James, founder of AgeSpace – a website and forum providing support and information for anyone looking after the health and finances of an older person.

She started the website after her own mother suffered a stroke.

James says: ‘We struggled to know where to find information and what to do with regards to funding all the support and care my mum required.

‘Our aim is to try to do the hard work for people who find themselves in a similar situation – signposting to the best information and resources out there.’

James co-hosts the series with financial adviser and author Jason Butler. The first episode is available now and explores ‘financial organisation’.

The next five episodes – covering how to fund care, equity release, inheritance, power of attorney and making a will – are to be released every Friday until December 6. Each episode lasts ten to 12 minutes. To listen, visit agespace.org/ podcast. The series can also be downloaded on to smartphones and tablets via the AppStore or Google Play.

James also hopes to attract more people requiring help to her website. She adds: ‘We hope AgeSpace becomes the equivalent of Mumsnet for the middleaged – to help make the best decisions about the care of elderly parents and relatives.’

According to charity Carers UK, 6.5 million people across the country care for a person who is elderly, disabled or sick.

Financial support, which many will not know they are eligible for, includes Carers Allowance, Council Tax relief and contributions to fuel costs. To find out more visit carersuk.org.