What is a Carer?
A carer can be any age and could include someone under 18 (often known as a young carer), or someone who is the parent of a disabled child or young person.
Many people are carers, but find it difficult to see themselves in this role, and do not always wish to be identified as a carer, as for them the caring relationship is simply part of normal everyday life as a son, daughter, husband, wife, parent for example.
As a result, they often don’t realise that there is support available for them as well as the person they care for.
Am I a Carer?
According to the last Census in 2011, 6.5 million people in the UK are providing unpaid care (Census 2011).
Carers UK estimates that the number of unpaid carers has risen to 10.6 million (Carers UK, Carers Week 2022 research report).
This means that 1 in 5 adults in the UK are currently providing care.
Not sure if you're carer? Take this short quiz! Carers Quiz
Darlington Borough Council
Darlington Borough Council is committed to supporting carers and carers should always be involved in the assessment of the person they care for and should also be offered an assessment of their own needs as a carer.
If you would like a carer’s assessment to identify your needs, you can complete this online or you can call Adult Social Care on 01325 406111.
Further information can be found via their website - Darlington Borough Council
Further Information
Depending on your age and the person you're caring for, there is lots of information, support and guidance available. You can find out more information below.