Carers

A carer is someone who looks after either a family member, friend or neighbour who needs help due to illness, disability or old age. 

A carer can be a child or an adult, assisting the cared-for person with day-to-day activities, like personal care, such as, washing, dressing and eating.  Providing care may also involve escorting the cared-for person to appointments or keeping them company if they are lonely or anxious. 

Most people will care for someone at some point in their life.  For some individuals providing care for someone can be a new and challenging experience, and for others it is a traditional expectation and responsibility.  

This is unpaid care and is different from care provided through a voluntary organisation or in a professionally paid capacity.

There is no right or wrong way to care for others, as every circumstance is personal and unique.  Although identifying yourself or others as a Carer can ensure that you gain access to the advice, information and support that you need, to maintain your own health and wellbeing.  This in turn will enable you to continue to care and avoid the likelihood of burnout.