Caring can be a lifelong commitment for some, while for others it can be a sudden responsibility.
If you provide unpaid care for an adult with a disability or health problem you might need support to help you look after your own health and wellbeing.
Are you an unpaid carer?
You’re probably a carer if:
- you do things like helping someone to wash, dress and eat;
- you take someone to regular appointments, do their shopping or keep them company;
- you regularly check on someone to make sure they are safe and have everything they need; and
- your not paid to look after the person you’re caring for.
You could spend a couple of hours a day or 24 hours a day, 7 days a week caring for someone.
You could live with the person you care for or live separately, whether that is locally or further afield.
You can find useful information produced by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council’s Adults Social Care Department at Support for carers or a list of services that can support you in our service directory.
We understand that unpaid carers often worry about what would happen if they were delayed, taken ill or called away. The Emergency Carers Card Scheme provides a contact number that can be reached 24/7 and an emergency support plan, for the cared for person, in the event an unpaid carer is faced with any sort of unforeseen emergency.
Unpaid carers can access the service by registering with Carers Together by telephone 01642 488977 or email info@carerstogether-rc.org.uk.
You can also register with your GP. This can help your surgery provide you with arranging repeat prescriptions, Flu immunisation, annual health checks and arranging appointments which fit in with your caring role.
Complete and return this form and hand to your GP.