Are you looking after a relative or friend?

A carer provides help to someone else who needs it. This may be physical, emotional or social care. It may involve a lot of daily input or more occasional help.

Carers since the Carers (Recognition and Services) Act 1995, have the right to ask for an assessment of their own needs.

Help for carers

If you are finding it hard to manage you can ask Social Services to assess what help the person you look after needs and what help you also need to go on looking after them.

The help that is available is for example a “sitting service” or placement at a day centre, or a short stay in a residential home for the cared for person. Help with domestic chores can also be available. If you talk to a social services worker, he or she can advise you about what help is available, the costs involved and any benefits available.

Help and Care's Carerslink helpline numbers:

01305 251191
01929 555210
01202 434455

from 10am - 12 noon and 2pm - 4pm every weekday
(answerphone outside these hours)

If you are a new carer, and not quite sure where to start looking for information or support, contacting Carerslink would be a good starting point.

See Also

Gillingham Medical Practice | Carers Identification Form