A carer is someone who supports another who has a mental, physical or sensory impairment to live independantly. This might be a partner, relative, friend or neighbour. You may or may not live in the same household. A carer can be any age, from children supporting parents or grandparents to pensioners supporting each other or younger friends and relatives.
For some carers this might be for just a few hours a week still allowing them to work etc.. For them their social and family time suffers as they juggle their different roles. For others it may be necessary to give up their careers and even their homes to provide round the clock support.
Caring though rewarding, impacts on our lives. Often frustrating, isolating and detrimental to both the carers finances, health and well being.
On this website we have a chance to share our caring roles. This is your site so please tell us what you would like to see here. Use the forums to tell us what drives you mad or indeed what keeps you sane.
Would you be interested in meeting other carers? Please take the time to look at our suggestions and let us know. Vote in our poll and give us your views in the forums.
Carer2carer also runs a helpline.
If you would like to speak to a carer in a similar position to yourself phone 01384 482980, please leave your name and number and a brief message and we will get back to you as soon as possible. You can also send a text message to 077 947 34366
Volunteers will offer a 'listening ear' to carers and, if necessary, sign-post them to other agencies if more information or help is needed.