What carers do
Carers offer regular, unpaid help to look after those that need extra support. This could be someone who needs help due to their age, a physical or learning disability, illness or mental health problem.
A carer might help with:
- personal care, such as washing, dressing, eating
- taking someone to regular appointments
- medication
- housework
- financial support
- emotional support by keeping them company and giving them someone to talk to.
Who a carer may be
A carer can be anyone.
They could be at school, elderly, frail, disabled or suffering from long term illness themselves.
Many carers do not see themselves as a carer. They see themselves as someone’s parent, husband or wife, son or daughter, friend or neighbour who is supporting a loved one or friend.
Caring for someone can be rewarding but can also be a challenging and stressful time for the carer.