Carers Advice

Are you an unpaid carer?

An unpaid carer is someone who looks after a family member or friend who could not cope without their support. Looking after someone can be hugely rewarding but can also be tough. If this applies to you, you may be eligible to respite as well as financial and peer support.

Please click on this link to let us know you are a carer: https://www.monkfieldpractice.co.uk/tell-us-if-you-are-a-carer-form

There is a wealth of information on NHS Choices about carers and caring. Below are some links into the site that we hope you will find useful.

Telling people

Caring responsibilities can make it difficult to maintain friendships or develop new ones. Telling your friends you're a carer is important so they understand and can support you.

Taking a break

Caring for someone can be a full-time job, but it's essential that you take time out for yourself too. Read our guide to accessing breaks and respite.

Housing and carers

Do you know your tenancy rights as a carer? Are you aware of all your care at home options? Do you need tips on moving someone around the home?

Help claiming benefits, looking after your bank balance and understanding the legal issues of caring.

Benefits for carers

Directing carers to the benefits that can help them in their caring role

Benefits for the person you care for

Advice and information on helping the person you look after get the benefits that they are entitled to

Tax credits

Information on claiming tax credits and whether you might be eligible

Contact Carers Direct

Telephone: 0808 802 0202

Website: Carersdirect

Email: CarersDirect@nhschoices.nhs.uk

Office Hours: 8am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 11am to 4pm at weekends. Calls are free from UK landlines.

Carers UK

They’re here to make sure that no matter how complicated your query or your experience, you don’t have to care alone.

Telephone: 020 7378 4999

Website: www.carersuk.org

Young Carers

Centre 33

Telephone: 0333 4141 809

Page last reviewed: 10 June 2025
Page created: 17 March 2019