Carers
A carer is anyone who looks after a relative or friend, who due to physical or mental illness, age-related difficulties, disability, or an addiction, cannot manage without support. Caring can be hard work, both physically and emotionally, but there are many different ways you can get help and support.
National support
The NHS provides information on support and benefits for carers which includes carer's assessments, support from local councils and respite care.
Carers UK is a support network that can give you expert information and advice that’s tailored to your situation, supporting you to find new ways to manage at home and at work
Carers Trust works to improve support, services and recognition for anyone living with the challenges of caring, unpaid, for a family member or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or addiction problems.
Barnado’s Family Space has been developed to help you find information, advice, guidance and support for all stages of your parenting or caring journey.
NHS employers provides information on supporting staff with caring responsibilities, access to tips, good practice examples and links to resources.
Carers can find more support regarding balancing caring and work, their rights and flexible working under ‘carers’ in the working flexibly section.
Parents can find more support with balancing their work, home lives and caring responsibilities under ‘parents’ in the flexible and remote working section of this site.
Local support
Kent County Council provides information on Kent and Medway’s carers’ emergency card, carer’s allowance and other local support and local carer organisations.
As a carer of any kind – even if you think you are just being a good friend or relative – you have a right to a carer’s assessment which could result in you being offered respite care or other help.
Carers First Medway offers support to unpaid carers supporting someone in Medway.
Carers’ Support East Kent provides carers with the information and support they need.
Kent Carers Matter aims to raise the profile of carers in Kent, increase access to carer services and support health and social care professionals to identify and refer carers.
Crossroads Care Kent helps carers to make a life of their own outside of caring by providing quality care services, offering peace of mind while they enjoy some time to themselves.
Imago offers support for adult carers. Community Navigators can talk to you about your caring role and provide advice, guidance and support; helping you to maintain your own health and well-being, and to find the right balance between your caring role and your own needs.
Involve Kent, available in West Kent, empowers and supports carers, enabling them to care well for others and improve their own health and wellbeing.