Often people in a caring role do not consider themselves to be carers if they are looking after somebody close to them and think of it as just something they do. However, it is recognised that unpaid carers do a vital job and there are many services available to anyone who spends time caring for a relative, partner or friend unpaid. This practice keeps a computer register of carers - this is because we know that carers often overlook their own healthcare needs.

The register will alert us to the fact that you may sometimes require help and support to focus on your own needs. If you are an unpaid carer and would like your name to be placed on our register, please give your name and details to a receptionist. It can be helpful for us to know who you care for and whether they live at the same address. The person you care for does not have to be registered with us for your name to be on the register.

You may also speak to the The Carers Link Worker at our practice (Lucy). We know that may carers are young people and there are services specifically for young carers. When you are registered we will send you a carer's pack produced by The Carers Centre. The Carers Centre is a gateway service that can provide information, guidance and support on all sorts of issues including benefits, local services, emotional support, activities and groups, factsheets and Young Carers groups. They can also put you in touch with other carer's organisations. We have their leaflets and their poster in the waiting room and we try to do a special display for carers every year.

You may find The Carer's Centre website helpful:

www.thecarerscentre.org
Brighton & Hove carers' centre

 You may also find the following links helpful:

www.carersweek.org
For information about national events

www.carersuk.org
The only carer-led organisation in the UK

www.carefinder.org.uk
For information on local residential and domestic help

www.cftc.org.uk
Care for the carers, offering advice on back protection

www.crossroads.org.uk
Find your locally based charity offering services to give carers a break.

Many of these services have information specifically for young carers.

If you can't find what you are looking for, try Brighton & Hove City PCT Patient Advice and Liaison service on 0800 013 0251

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