Life after caring
When your caring role ends, it can take time to adjust. You may welcome the chance to rest, but you might also feel unsure about what comes next. Many carers notice exhaustion catching up with them — physically and emotionally. After putting someone else’s needs first for a long time, it’s important to look after yourself and let others support you.
Some practical things may need attention (such as benefits or housing), but you don’t need to make big decisions straight away. Take your time and focus on your wellbeing first.
Benefits you may be able to claim
If you can't work due to illness or disability
You may be able to claim:
- New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) — if you’ve paid enough National Insurance
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) — help with daily living or mobility (under State Pension age)
- Attendance Allowance — if you’re over State Pension age and need help to look after yourself
PIP and Attendance Allowance are not means tested, and can be paid alongside other benefits.
Means‑tested benefits
You may be able to claim these if your income is low:
- Universal Credit
- New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit (mainly for people over State Pension age or in supported accommodation)
- Council Tax Reduction (apply via your local council)
If you previously had a Council Tax discount for your caring role, let the council know your situation has changed. You may now qualify for a single person discount.
For more information, visit MoneyHelper.
Help with energy costs
The Local Energy Advice Partnership (LEAP) offers free home visits help reduce energy bills. This service is available in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
Finding new routines and interests
Adjusting to life after caring can feel strange. You may feel isolated or unsure how to fill your time. Staying connected with people can help rebuild confidence.
Try starting with small steps — reconnecting with friends, exploring community groups, or speaking with your local carer service about support for former carers.
Volunteering
Volunteering can be a great way to meet people, regain confidence, and use the skills you gained through caring. Opportunities might include befriending, admin support, fundraising, or conservation work.
PramaLIFE have a mentoring scheme for former carers to support new carers.
You can also contact the Community Action Network, who can help you find volunteering options.
Learn something new
You might want to refresh old skills or try something completely different. Learning can boost your confidence and help you meet new people.
To find information about what is available to you, contact your local library or contact Skills & Learning.
Returning to work
If you stopped working because of caring, you may want to explore work again when you feel ready. Start by recognising your strengths and experiences — caring often builds skills that employers value, such as organisation, communication and problem‑solving.
Think about:
- What you enjoy doing
- What you’re good at
- What you’d like to learn
You could also explore personal development courses like confidence building or managing stress.
The National Careers Service offers advice, skills checks and support with CVs and job applications.
Support to get back into training and work
Jobcentre Plus can help with:
- Training programmes
- CV writing and interview preparation
- Financial support when starting work
When applying for jobs or benefits, include the skills and experience you gained through caring.
Helping improve support for other carers
Your experience matters. Former carers can help improve local services by sharing their views. Visit our get involved page for information about ways you have help develop services.