"A carer is a person who provides help and support to a member of their family, a friend, neighbour or relative, who could not manage otherwise, because of disability, frailty or illness".
Is someone close to you going into hospital for treatment or are they in hospital now? Will you be looking after them unpaid on their return home? If so, you are a carer!
On a busy hospital ward, carers can sometimes be overlooked, so it is important that you let staff know if you are a carer, so they can take your needs into account. It is also important that the person you care for tells staff this as well.
We recognise carers have their own needs and may require support. There are a number of agencies and organisations which can offer you advice and support.
'As I was very, very nervous, I must have been the worst patient ever and they were brilliant with me and I can't thank them enough - could you please pass on my sincere thanks.'
Patient, Hysteroscopy Unit, Chester-le-Street Community Hospital