Carers Direct

Are You a Carer?

If you are please let us know – we may be able to help you.

There is a wealth of information on NHS Choices about carers and caring. Below are some links to the site that we hope you will find useful.

Caring for a parent
Watch this video on: caring for a parent at home
Telling people
Caring responsibilities can make it difficult to maintain friendships or develop new ones. Telling your friends you’re a carer is important so they understand and can support you.
Taking a break
Caring for someone can be a full-time job, but it’s essential that you take time out for yourself too. Read our guide to accessing breaks and respite.
Housing and carers
Do you know your tenancy rights as a carer? Are you aware of all your care at home options? Do you need tips on moving someone around the home?

Telephone:	0808 802 0202
Helpline Information:	Your guide to care and support
Email:	CarersDirect@nhschoices.nhs.uk
Office Hours:	Lines are open:8 am to 9 pm – Monday to Friday 11 am to 4 pm at weekends. Calls are free from UK landlines.

Help to claim benefits, looking after your bank balance and understanding the legal issues of caring.

Benefits for carers
Directing carers to the benefits that can help them in their caring role
Benefits for the person you care for
Advice and information on helping the person you look after getting the benefits that they are entitled to
Death and benefits
How your benefits maybe affected after the death of the person you look after and what happens to their benefits
Managing someone’s legal affairs
Advice for when carers find they have to take over the legal affairs of the person they are looking after
Other benefits
Advice for carers and the people they are looking after on claiming a whole host of other benefits unrelated to their disability or caring
Personal and household finance
Advice on keeping a tight rein on household and personal finance for carers
Social fund
Tax credits
Information on claiming tax credits and whether you might be eligible