Carers
If you support someone who cannot manage without your help, you are an unpaid carer. This may include doing household tasks, shopping, paying bills, or giving emotional support. The person you care for may have an illness, disability, mental health condition or substance misuse issues.
You are not alone
Caring can be rewarding but also challenging. Support is available to help you look after yourself while you care for others.
Signposting we offer
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Emotional support
Counselling, peer groups and wellbeing services.
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Practical help
Help with benefits, respite care and accessing local services.
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Training
First aid, dementia care and moving and handling.
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Carer's assessment
Explore your needs and identify what support is available.
Looking after yourself
It is important to take regular breaks, stay connected and ask for help. Remember to look after your health, it really matters.
Urgent advice: What to do in an emergency
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, feeling suicidal or in need of urgent support to keep you or a loved one safe, then please contact our crisis service.
Your rights as a carer
Do
- have the right to a carer’s assessment
- have access to financial support (if eligible)
- have the right to involvement in care planning decisions
National support
Regional support
Financial support
If you are balancing paid work with caring responsibilities, you can get support through Employers for Carers (EFC). This free online platform provides information on health, wellbeing, carers’ rights, and how to manage work alongside caring.
You can access the carers’ support using the code: DGTL1849.
For information, advice and guidance on the cost of living, such as debt, housing, employment, benefits, grants and saving money, phone Citizen’s Advice on 01302 243 057.
Page last reviewed: March 31, 2026
Next review due: March 31, 2027
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