Website of the UK government

This section isn't about healthy living as such - that can be found elsewhere on this website under 'Health and well-being' and 'over 50s' sections - it's more a guide to letting people know that you are a carer, the support you need and taking a break from caring.

Your doctor

talk through any issues you have, especially if you are experiencing stress or anxiety

Your doctor (GP) is a good starting point to get information and support. Remember that your GP won't necessarily know that you are a carer. Talk through any issues you have, especially if you are experiencing stress or anxiety. Your doctor can be one route in to social services, counselling and organisations that may be able to help.

When making an appointment, ask for extra time with your doctor to talk through matters. Make a list of questions beforehand - this will make the doctor understand the concerns you have about your own health - and those of the person you care for.

If you have difficulty in getting to the doctor because it's hard to leave the person you care for on their own, ask your doctor if a home visit is possible.

Even things like prescriptions being delivered to your door can be arranged between your doctor and your chemist.

• Find health services in your area

Your local council

You local council is responsible for helping carers by providing support services. This could be something to help you cope at home, like a home help, or things that allow you to take a break from your caring role, like day centres.

In order to find out whether you are entitled to services and what support would help you best, the council needs to carry out a carer's assessment.

• Assessments for carers