Carers

Are you a Carer?

What is the definition of a carer?

A carer is someone who provides unpaid support to a relative, partner or friend. This could be caring for someone who is ill, frail, disabled or has a mental health problem or substance misuse problems.

Many people who are carers do not see themselves as such because, first and foremost, they may be husbands, wives, partners, parents, siblings or friends. However, by providing unpaid care and support, they are in fact ‘carers’ and, therefore, have rights.


What are the different types of carers?

Adult Carers

If you are an adult who is caring for another adult over the age of 18 then you are an adult carer. Parents caring for young people over the age of 18 are also referred to as adult carers. There are a range of services to support adult carers both in their caring role and also to have a life outside their caring role.

Parent Carers

If you are a parent who is caring for a child with a disability under the age of 18, then you are a parent carer. Parents with children who have additional needs may be able to access services to support them in their caring role.

Young Carers

If you are a child or young person under the age of 18 who provides unpaid support to a parent, brother or sister, or other relative, then you are a young carer.

NHS Choices has a vast amount of information that you may find useful.


Young Carers Awareness Day

The fifth Young Carers Awareness Day will take place on Thursday 31 January 2019. information:


Carers’ Check Up

Our Health Care Assistant invites patients for an annual Carers’ Check Up. If you are a Carer then please let our Reception Team know so that we can offer you additional support and guidance provided by the Sunderland Carers Centre.

For further information please see their website: www.sunderlandcarers.co.uk

Follow Sunderland Carers on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/sunderlandcarerscentre/


Contact Carers Direct

Telephone: 0808 802 0202
Helpline Information: Carers Direct Helpline Web Link
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours: Lines are open 8:00am to 9:00pm Monday to Friday, 11:00am to 4:00pm at weekends. Calls are free from UK landlines.