I’m looking after someone

If you are looking after someone (being a carer), and are unpaid to do this, then you provide a really important role in supporting friends or family members in difficult situations, helping them live independently for longer. You may not even call yourself a carer as it might seem natural that you provide support for someone in your life. Every day 6,000 people in the UK become carers, looking after family or friends who are older, disabled or seriously ill.

However, there may be support available and this checklist suggests a range of things to think about and be aware of if you are already caring for someone or considering or needing to take on caring responsibilities. This page aims to provide you with a range of support and advice and acts as a checklist of prompts, so make yourself a brew and work your way through. Each link will open in a new tab, so the list remains open for you.

1 Understanding your needs as a carer SHOW

2 Getting general advice and guidance SHOW

3 Managing the affairs of the person you care for SHOW

4 Accessing financial support for yourself SHOW

5 Getting the support you need SHOW

6 Stay in touch SHOW