Do you look after someone who is ill, frail, disabled or mentally ill? If so, you are a carer.

We are interested in identifying carers, especially those people who may be caring without help or support. We know that carers are often “hidden” looking after a family member or helping a friend or neighbour with day to day tasks and may not see themselves as a carer.

We feel that caring for someone is an important and valuable role in the community, which is often a 24 hour job that can be very demanding and isolating for the carer. We further believe carers should receive appropriate support by way of access to accurate information on a range of topics such as entitlement to benefits and respite care and not least, a listening ear when things get too much.

As a carer, you are also entitled to have your needs assessed by Adult Care Services. A carer’s assessment is a chance to talk about your needs as a carer and the possible ways help could be given. It also looks at the needs of the person you care for. This could be done separately or together, depending on the situation. There is no charge for an assessment.

If you are a carer, please complete our Register a Carer form so that we can update our records and pass on your details to Social Services. They can provide relevant information and advice, local support services, newsletter and telephone link-line. We can also refer you to Adult Care Services for a carer’s assessment.