Caring for family and friends

We know how important carers are in supporting the health and wellbeing of the people they look after. Carers often give up parts of their own lives to make sure others get the help they need. Caring can feel rewarding and give a sense of purpose, but it can also be hard. Many carers feel stressed, lonely, or struggle to balance caring with work and looking after themselves. We want every carer to feel supported to live a happy and healthy life, and we are committed to giving them the help they need to achieve this.

Our commitment to Carers:

• Carers feel valued and recognised
• Carers have access to the information and advice they need
• Carers are offered an assessment in their own right

Are you a carer?

"A carer is anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who due to illness, frailty, disability, mental health issues or an addiction, cannot cope without their support"

The person you care for could be:

• Family member
• Friend
• Neighbour

The support you provide could be:

• Shopping and meal preparation
• Helping with paperwork and appointments
• Supporting with washing and getting dressed
• Housework, laundry and cleaning
• Helping with medication
• Companionship

What are your rights as a carer?

• A free flu vaccine
• The right to be identified as a carer
• The right to protection from discrimination
• The right to receive a Carer’s Assessment
• The right to discuss flexible working options
• The right to be consulted on hospital discharge