What makes you a carer?
A carer is anyone who provides unpaid care for a family member or friend who, due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction, can’t cope without their support.
People who provide unpaid care and support to others view themselves as doing what anyone else would do for a loved one, rather than seeing themselves as carers. Although there are many positive and rewarding aspects to caring, there are lots of reasons why the experience can also leave the carer needing support.
If you’re a carer
If you are a carer there’s considerable advice and support available to you. You can get help to look after your own health and wellbeing so you have time to enjoy social activities, work or educational opportunities alongside your caring role.
It’s important to think about how the care and support you provide affect your well-being and what could make things better for you and the person you look after.
Local help and support
Please click on the relevant link for your local authority below which will show you the support available to you: