Generally, when we think of a “carer,” many of us picture someone in a uniform, working full-time in a professional healthcare setting. But the truth is, thousands of people across our county are unpaid carers, and many of them don’t even realise it.
What Is an Unpaid Carer?
An unpaid carer is anyone who looks after a friend, partner, child, or relative who needs help because of illness, disability, mental health difficulties, or addiction, and who isn’t paid to do so. This could be helping with everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning, and shopping, or providing emotional support and managing medication or appointments.
Sound familiar?
You might be a carer if…
- You regularly check in on a parent with dementia.
- You help your partner get dressed and attend medical appointments.
- You support a friend struggling with their mental health.
- You provide transport, shopping, or meals for a neighbour who can’t manage on their own.
If any of this applies to you, you may be an unpaid carer, even if you’ve never called yourself one.
Why it matters
Being a carer can be rewarding, but it also comes with challenges. Without support, many carers experience stress, isolation, and burnout. That’s why registering with Carers Support West Sussex, as a carer is so important.
By registering with Carers Support West Sussex, you gain access to:
- Free carer information, advice, guidance and support
- Carer benefits advice
- Help with emergency planning
- Carer events and groups – both online and face-to-face.
- Find out about respite opportunities and wellbeing services
- A local network of people who understand what you’re going through
Registration is easy
We understand how busy life is. That’s why our registration process is simple and quick. You can either phone our Helpline or complete an online form.
Once you’re registered, we can begin supporting you in the ways that matter most.
You can watch an animation about what to expect when you register with Carers Support.
