Are you a carer?

A carer spends a lot of time providing unpaid support to family or friends. This could be caring for a relative, partner or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or drug and alcohol related problems.

Telford & Wrekin Council is committed to supporting carers. We recognise that most care in the community takes place through family, friends and neighbours and is largely unpaid.

We are seeking people's feedback on the draft All Age Carers Strategy so we can address local issues and enhance health, social and voluntary services for carers over the next five years.

More inforamtion about the All Age Carers Strategy Consultation

Who are carers?

• It is estimated there are around 7 million carers in the UK providing unpaid help and support to a partner, relative, friend or neighbour who is frail, ill or disabled.
• There are an estimated 18,000 unpaid carers in Telford and Wrekin.
• Carers can be of any age, from any cultural or social background.
• Many people do not consider themselves to be a carer as they may just be looking after one or both parents, their adult child, or best friend - simply getting on with it and doing what anyone would in the same situation.
• A lot of people who are carers don't recognise themselves as such because they live with the person they are caring for.
• Carers may think they can't be carers because they don't live with the person they support.

​Did you know?

• The term carer should not be confused with a care worker or care assistant, who receives payment for looking after someone.
• A carer doesn't have to be someone who lives with the person they care for or be related to them.
• Carers often live with the person they care for but this isn't always the case.
• Carers provide care because of the relationship they have with the cared-for person. Most do it willingly but some feel they have no choice.
• The physical and emotional wellbeing of a carer can be compromised by their caring role.
• Caring for someone can be a rewarding experience but it can also be lonely, boring frustrating and stressful.
• As a carer you are entitled to support in your caring role, by law.

You can get in touch with the Carers Centre to arrange an assessment. 

Visit the Carers Centre website to find out what support is available for all carers

Last updated: 18/04/2024 15:08