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Help for carers looking after a loved one

If you look after a partner, relative or friend who is disabled or ill due to physical or mental health, you are a carer, even if you don’t think of yourself as one. Find out about the emotional, practical and financial support available to you.

There are many ways that you might care for someone. For instance you might:

  • be on hand 24 hours a day to provide care.
  • arrange hospital appointments for someone.
  • drop round each day to keep someone company or cook their dinner.
  • visit a relative who lives far away once a month to see how they’re doing.
  • move in with someone to help them recuperate after a major operation.

If you care for someone, contact your local council to arrange a carer's assessment.

I need help with...

  • Financial support for carers

    As a carer, you may be eligible for financial support including Carer's Allowance or Carer's Credit.

  • Juggling work and caring

    Find out about your rights at work and what could help you with manage work and your caring role.

  • Dementia care

    Looking after someone with dementia can bring specific challenges. Find out the support and guidance available to you.

  • Taking a break from caring

    It’s important to take care of yourself and get a break if you need one - this is known as respite care.

  • Looking after myself

    If you’re a full-time carer or spend a lot of time caring for someone, it's important to make time for yourself too.

  • My role has changed or ended

    If you’re caring for someone and their needs increase, or they move into a care home, or they die, it can be a difficult time.

Carer's checklist

Not sure where to start? Our checklist gives helpful tips to make sure you get the support and information you need.

Read our tips

'Do seek help. Do accept it's stressful'

Caroline Abrahams, Age UK Charity Director, talks about her experiences of looking after a relative.

We're here to help

We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 140 local Age UKs.

About the Age UK Advice Line Find your local Age UK

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