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Carers

Are you a Carer?

A carer is anyone who provides unpaid support for another person (family member or friend) who would otherwise not cope without your support.

Caring for a loved one can be an immensely rewarding experience, but is also comes with it’s own unique challenges. We understand the physical, emotional and mental demands that carers face on a daily basis. As a Practice we recognise the invaluable role that carers play in our community, and we want to ensure that your needs are met, and you receive the support and resources you deserve. If you are looking after someone, please let us know by completing the register as a carer form, so that we can ensure you receive all the support and information we can give.

It is estimated that around 10% of the population provide care for someone but only a small number of these register as a carer with their GP Practice.

Registering as a carer with your GP practice helps ensure that you are recognised and supported in your caring role. It allows the practice to offer more flexible appointments, consider your responsibilities when arranging care, and monitor your own physical and mental wellbeing. Registration can also help you access additional support such as health checks, signposting to local services, and practical advice, while ensuring clinicians understand the impact caring may have on your health. Most importantly, it helps prevent carers’ needs from being overlooked and promotes a more joined‑up, supportive approach to both you and the person you care for.

Young Carers

Young carers are classed as those aged 17 and a half years and under and may be providing care and support to family members who have a chronic illness, disability or mental health condition. they often undertake tasks such as assisting with personal care, administering medication, managing household chores and providing emotional support. These responsibilities can have a profound impact on their lives and it is important to acknowledge the unique needs and experiences of young carers and provide them with appropriate support.

Young carers often will not identify themselves as being a carer. There are lots of different and complex reasons for this including lack of awareness, fear of judgement or involvement from services, loyalty to family, or time pressures. To address this, we aim to make registration simple, confidential and supportive, while raising awareness and reassuring families that the purpose is to provide help, not criticism.

What is available for Carers?

  • Signposting to local carers’ services, support groups, and respite care
  • Carers Emergency Card – a free, credit-card-sized ID carried by unpaid carers to alert authorities, in a crisis, that someone relies on them
  • Advice on benefits and practical support available to carers
  • Flu vaccinations and preventative care (where eligible)
  • Recognition of your role, ensuring clinicians consider your needs when treating both you and the person you care for
  • Support with stress, anxiety, or burnout, including referrals to counselling

National and Local Support Services

Page published: 9 May 2023
Last updated: 14 May 2026