Health and wellbeing support for carers

Carers play a crucial role in providing both practical and emotional support. Without them, many people would struggle to stay independent and could become isolated, lonely, and depressed. However, caring can be tough and demanding. If your caring role significantly impacts your life, you may be eligible for support services.

A carers assessment can help you to identify what support services may help you. 

Looking after someone else can make it harder to take care of your own physical and emotional wellbeing. Research shows that carers are more likely to have poor health compared to those without caring responsibilities.

Staying healthy is important for both you and the person you care for. We offer support through various groups, activities, and one-on-one help. You can find support groups in our Community Directory and connect with local providers listed under useful contacts and information on this page.

You can also find useful online resources from Carers UK such as “Looking after your health". Carers UK covers topics like getting enough sleep, coping with guilt and stress, and looking after your back.

• Tell Your GP: Let your GP know you are a carer. They will note this on your Primary Care Record and may offer extra support, including priority vaccines.
• Register as a Carer:
  • Some GP surgeries have a form on their website to register as a carer.
  • If not, use Carers UK's template letter to inform your GP about your caring responsibilities.

Respite care provides temporary relief for you by offering short-term care for the person you look after. This allows you to take a break, rest, and recharge.

For more information on how to access respite care you can visit the short breaks and holidays for carers page.

Carers support East Kent