The Practice keeps a record of all known carers, as well as those being cared for. It is important that the Practice team recognises the role that carers play in co-coordinating the care and support required by dependant patients. Carers should be actively involved in discussions of treatment and expected outcomes; together with the recognition of the impact caring has on them as an individual.
Definition of a Carer
“A carer is someone, who without payment, regularly helps a disabled, mentally or physically ill or frail relative, friend or neighbour.” (Help and Care)"
You may not consider yourself a carer, as caring is often something we do for family or friends without question and without defining or labelling it as such. If you provide care to someone who needs help because of their illness, frailty, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction, and they couldn’t manage without your support, then you are a carer.
Carers can be anyone of any age and perform any number of different tasks to support the person they are caring for. You may be providing practical support like shopping, meal preparation, personal care (such as washing or dressing) or you may be providing emotional support to support someone’s mental wellbeing. You do not have to live with the person you care for to be a carer.
Do you look after someone who couldn't manage without your support?
If the answer is yes, then you are a carer.
