Carer
Who is a Carer?
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.
The care they provide may include:
- helping to make meals, or doing housework or shopping
- helping someone to wash and dress, or to eat
- making sure that medication is taken or collected on time
- keeping an eye on someone to keep them safe
- providing emotional support
- reminding them to do things they can no longer remember to do
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.
More information about the support available for carers can be found can be found in the following leaflets
- information about carers assessments [rich text document]
- carers information sheet – support for carers [rich text document]
- or via Livingwell carer pages [external link]
Agencies who can offer information and support:
Durham County Carers Support
Durham County Carers Support provides information, support and advice to carers across Durham and Darlington. Through them you can make contact with other carers and receive information about other sources of help.
If you would like to speak to someone, or make an enquiry, please call 0300 005 1213 or email [email protected]
Darlington Association on Disability (DAD)
Darlington Association on Disability (DAD) was established in 1986 as a voluntary and charitable organisation led by disabled people. It exists to help people with disabilities gain independence and choice, and supports disabled people and carers through the provision of services, support and information and by engage with issues locally and nationally.
If you would like to speak to someone at DAD, you can call 01325 489999 or text 0762 481 8780.
You can also contact DAD by email, or use their online form to ask any questions.
Carers UK
The Carers UK Digital Resource for Carers provides a range of products and support resources including the Jointly App, e-Learning modules, factsheets, interactive guides, personalised support and information.
To create a new account, use the access code DGTL1931 or go to Livingwell or more information.