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Are you a carer?

If you provide care to someone who is unable to look after themselves, then you are a carer. You are still a wife, partner, husband, friend, parent, son or daughter. Your role has not changed - you are just adding something extra.

Everyone has a different experience of caring. You might become a carer suddenly or it may happen gradually. It can last for a few weeks or for several years. It can occupy a few hours each week or 24 hours a day.

Caring can involve helping someone wash or dress themselves. You might drive them to hospital appointments or do their shopping. You may also provide company and emotional support.

Help and support for carers

Providing care for someone can be very rewarding, but it is often hard work and stressful. Caring can have an impact on your job, finances, social life and personal time. There is a lot of information to take in and there may be unexpected changes to deal with.

Make sure health and social care professionals know that you are a carer. You are part of the care team. It is important that you receive the information, help and support you need.

We can offer advice on how you can get help:

You can ask your local Social Services department for an assessment of your needs as a carer.
You might be entitled to financial support.
You can get help with legal matters.
You may need help to juggle your work and caring responsibilities.

We also have advice on looking after yourself and for young carers.

Further information

This information can be downloaded in our Carers Information Pack.

You can also find help and support for carers on the Carers Direct website.