Did you know... One in three people have been touched by hospice care

Help and support for carers

Around half a million people provide unpaid care for a terminally ill relative or friend in the UK. Carers of those at the end of life face many of the same issues as other carers. They may have financial concerns or may need to take an occasional break from caring.

These carers also have specific needs. They often have to deal with a complex and unpredictable illness. This can affect the carer's work and the rest of their life. They also face the emotional strain of knowing that they will eventually be bereaved.

Many carers of the terminally ill are 'thrown in' to their caring role. They may have little time to think about what is involved, and might not have time to find out about or access support.

We can help

We offer advice and information for carers so that they can find the help and support they need, including:

how to decide whether you are a carer
an explanation of the Carer's Assessment which lets you receive the support you need to continue caring
information about money matters and legal issues
advice if you are juggling work and caring
information about looking after yourself and looking after the person you are caring for.

We also have help and advice for young carers under the age of 18.

You can also find help and advice for carers on the Carers Direct website or ring the freephone helpline on 0808 802 02 02 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 9pm; weekends and bank holidays, 11am to 4pm).

Are you a professional?

Find out more about Help the Hospices' Care for the Carers of the Terminally Ill project.