Gemma’s story

Caring for my 95-year-old mum, who has Vascular Dementia, has been an incredibly isolating experience. Mum had me later in life, so I don’t have peers with parents in similar situations. Before Crossroads Care came into our lives, I felt alone and unsure if I was doing things right.

Caring for mum takes up every part of my life. I used to enjoy going out with friends, but now I rarely get the chance. I’m often on edge, waiting for a call from her care worker that requires me to rush across London. The worst part has been the lack of sleep; there have been some months where I wake up every hour because mum can’t sleep.

The support group at the Caring Café has really helped me. It’s a safe space where no one feels judged. Over time, I’ve realised that I’m not alone in this, and I have something to offer others who are just starting their caregiving journey.

Being a carer means you stop seeing yourself as a separate person to the person you are caring for because everything you do has to work around them.

Caring for mum can feel lonely, especially with the way systems are set up now, but Crossroads Care has always been there for me. They listen, offer ideas, and help me keep going

Organisations like Crossroads Care provide vital support, advice and respite breaks to carers across Richmond. With your help, we can get more funding to the organisations providing a lifeline to unpaid carers in our local area. See how you can help.

*Some names have been changed