Are you a Carer?
What is the definition of a carer?
A carer is someone who provides unpaid support to a relative, partner or friend. This could be caring for someone who is ill, frail, disabled or has a mental health problem or substance misuse problems. Many people who are carers do not see themselves as such because, first and foremost, they may be husbands, wives, partners, parents, siblings or friends. However, by providing uppaid care and support, they are in fact ‘carers’ and, therefore, have rights.
What are the different types of carers?
Adult Carers
If you are an adult who is caring for another adult over the age of 18 then you are an adult carer. Parents caring for young people over the age of 18 are also referred to as adult carers. There are a range of services to support adult carers both in their caring role and also to have a life outside their caring role.
Parent Carers
If you are a parent who is caring for a child with a disability under the age of 18, then you are a parent carer. Parents with children who have additional needs may be albe to access services to support them in their caring role.
Young Carers
If you are a child or young person under the age of 18 who provides unpaid support to a parent, brother or sister, or other relative, then you are a young carer.
Durham Carers Support
Please download the leaflet below giving you information on County Durham Carers Support.
You can also visit their website at: www.durhamcarers.info
Carers Digital Support
Access to free digital resources for carers based on their location within the UK. This includes access to the free Jointly app (see below) to help carers coordinate care. To access information relevant for the North East, or to access the jointly app, simply enter your email address, choose a password and use the access code: DPCN9174