You are a carer if you provide or arrange care for someone else who cannot care for themselves. A carer is not paid for what they do, and is different from a paid professional like a care worker or home help. As a carer you may support A family member, such as your child, parent, sibling or other relative Your partner A friend A neighbour You may provide a range of support, including Giving emotional support Helping someone cope with a mental health problem Cooking and cleaning Personal care, like washing and going to the toilet Budgeting and looking after finances Giving medicine or providing medical care Interpreting for someone who is deaf or who does not have English as their first language Reading information and filling in forms for someone who has literacy or concentration difficulties. Anyone can become a carer. It doesn’t matter how old you are, your gender or background. The care you provide could be short or long-term. You may or may not live with the person you are a carer for. Information and support on the MIND website Everyone Cares website
