Tell your GP
Ask your GP practice to record that you are a carer. This helps the practice understand your circumstances and tell you about relevant health checks, vaccinations or support.
Looking after you
Your health matters as much as the support you give.
Caring can affect sleep, mood, physical health and relationships. Small, realistic changes and timely help can prevent pressure becoming a crisis.
Notice the early signs
- You are sleeping badly or feel constantly on edge.
- You are missing your own appointments or medication.
- You feel isolated, low or unable to cope.
- Pain, exhaustion or unsafe moving and handling is increasing.
Create a manageable break
A break may be ten quiet minutes, regular time with friends, help with a task, a sitting service or replacement care. Start with what would genuinely restore some energy and ask what local help can make it possible.
When you need urgent help
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999. For urgent medical advice that is not an emergency, use NHS 111. If you feel unable to continue caring safely, call us and explain that the situation is urgent.