What is an unpaid carer?
The theme for Carers Week 2022 is ‘make caring visible, valued and supported’.
6,000 people in the UK start looking after someone close to them, unpaid, every day.
Many people who care for a loved one might not think of themselves as an unpaid carer but having the right information and support can make all the difference.
What is an unpaid carer?
An unpaid carer is anyone who provides unpaid care for a relative, friend or neighbour who is ill, frail or disabled and cannot manage on their own.
This could be because they are elderly, disabled, have a learning disability, have a drug or alcohol problem or have a long-term illness.
Caring for someone can take up a few hours each week or it might involve caring for somebody for 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The support provided by unpaid carers is varied, but might include:
Helping someone wash and dress themselves and with other personal care
Housework, food shopping and picking up and administering medication
Taking someone to hospital and GP appointments
Providing company and emotional support.
A young carer is somebody who is under 18 and is responsible for looking after someone who is ill, frail or disabled and cannot manage on their own. This could be a parent, grandparent or sibling.
If you think that you, or someone you know, may be a young carer, it is important that you tell your Local Authority about your situation.
If you live in Cardiff, you can contact a dedicated Young Carers co-ordinator on 02920 872 046 or 07772 439767.
If you live in the Vale of Glamorgan, you can contact Families First Advice Live on 0800 0327 322 or familiesfirstadviceline@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk.
What help and support is available?
Many unpaid carers will find their role rewarding, but being an unpaid carer can impact every aspect of your life.
Some unpaid carers might feel they need some additional support, including help with finances, practice and emotional support or replacement care.
Read more about emotional and practical support for unpaid carers.
Adult unpaid carers (those over the age of 18) can have a Carer’s assessment by the local council.
You will be entitled to an assessment regardless of the amount or type of care you provide, your financial means or your level of need for support.
Local Authorities can provide more details of services available to Unpaid Carers.
Vale of Glamorgan Council: Call 01446 700111 or visit the Vale of Glamorgan Council website
Cardiff Council: Call 029 2087 2087 or visit the Cardiff Council website.
Find out more information on Carer’s assessments.
Unpaid carers might also be entitled to some benefits.
Carer’s Allowance is the main benefit for carers. If you are looking after someone for 35 hours a week or more, you may be eligible.
Find out more about the Carer’s Allowance.
If you’re an unpaid carer and work, it’s important you know about your rights.
Carers’ rights in the workplace include requesting flexible working and taking time off for emergencies involving dependents. Some employers offer additional benefits and support for employees with caring responsibilities.
CarersUK has a factsheet on carers' rights in work.
It’s important to remember that you are not alone.
For more information on local support available, please contact the Patient Experience Team on 029 2184 5692 or email pe.cav@wales.nhs.uk
For more information on wider support available, visit: