Supporting people who care for family and friends
I’m Kate. I am a Parent Carer Support Worker and a General Carer Support Worker. I’m also a carer myself. I support two children, one with a physical disability and one with emotional difficulties. I also provide support to an elderly grandparent. I’ve recently completed the Edinburgh Half Marathon and I’m considering training for a triathlon. … Read more
My name is Jane. I am new to COEL and joined the Carers Panel in 2023. I am a mother to 2 children with additional needs and support my ex-military husband who has CPTSD. In my day job I am a Project Coordinator for a small charity working with adults with learning disabilities, autism and … Read more
I’m Billy. I’ve been a carer since I was 14 years old. When I was a teenager I supported my Mum. She was diagnosed with MS when I was 15. I helped her around the house and with her condition. My doctor helped me talk to my Mum and then I attended a group twice … Read more
Hi, I’m Karen. I’m a Mum to two young children and a carer for my Dad. I first got in contact with Carers of East Lothian when my dad had a dip in his mental health. I contacted them to get some support for me and to seek advice on how to help him. He … Read more
My name is Teresa, I’ve just turned 67. I am married and I come from Brazil. We haven’t been here very long, only 8 years. My husband and I met in Brazil and after 40 years living there, we decided to come back here after our daughter started a family. It was quite a change, … Read more
What does caring mean to me? Looking out for friends and family, and stepping up when needs dictate. Keeping that person’s interests to the fore and trying to improve/maintain quality of life. Finding out about things and speaking to people you never knew existed. Sometimes not sticking to routine and what makes sense, but being … Read more
I am 34 almost 35 years old. I have had fibro(myalgia) since I was 12 but it has got progressively worse as I have gotten older. I never used to have any walking aids when I am outside but now, I need to walk with a crutch because I stumble. My left knee locks so … Read more
We work closely with East Lothian Council’s Young Carers Service. Here is a story highlighting the experience of one of the young carers they support. My name is Hayden, I’m 17 years old, and I live in Musselburgh, East Lothian. I love archery and have been doing it for many years. I also enjoy being … Read more
