A carer is a person of any age (including children) who provides unpaid support to a partner, relative, friend or neighbour who couldn’t cope without their help. This could be due to old age, frailty, disability, a serious health condition, mental ill health or substance misuse. Parents of children who are disabled or who have a serious health condition are also considered to be carers.
There is a difference between a carer and care professionals paid to provide care. Some carers receive statutory payments (for example Carer’s Allowance) or a direct payment for their caring role. Even when carers receive such payments, they are still considered to be carers.
Carers UK estimate that there are around 6.5 million carers in the UK, meaning carers represent 10% of the UK population. This includes around 700,000 young carers (aged 17 or below) (www.cqc.org.uk).
Please let us know if you look after some and talk to us about how you think we could help you.
Contact Carers Federation to find out more 01159629360 [email protected]
or visit Carers UK https://www.carersuk.org/