The outline of what a unpaid carer is may feel familiar to you but you do not have to call yourself an unpaid carer to access help and information. However, it can be helpful to consider the following.

Registering as an unpaid carer

You do not need to register as an unpaid carer but there can be benefits. Registering with your GP can help you access the help you are eligible for. Taking care of your health is important not only for you but also for the person you care for.

Making your GP aware you are an unpaid carer means that they can keep an eye on your health and offer support and advice. You may also be eligible for the following:

• free annual health checks
• the annual flu jab and Covid-19 boosters as advised.
• support with your physical and mental health to enable you to carry out your caring responsibilities
• general information and advice about being an unpaid carer
• help with prescriptions, such as having them delivered to your home

Health Watch Bexley will be able to provide independent advice for people who use health and social care services if needed. 

Complete a carer's assessment

If you are looking after a family member, friend or neighbour, you can request a free carer's assessment.

A carer's assessment is a way to find out how your role as an unpaid carer affects your health and wellbeing and to see what support could make your life easier. This assessment is open to everyone over the age of 18 who cares for someone. It helps identify things that could help, such as:

• someone to take over your caring duties so you can take a break
• gym memberships or exercise classes to relieve stress
• help with taxi fares if you don't drive
• assistance with gardening and housework
• training on how to lift safely
• connecting you with local support groups for advice and social contact
• advice on benefits available for unpaid carers

The assessment is not about judging your ability to care but about finding ways to support you, whether that’s helping you continue in your role or finding other resources for both you and the person you care for. It also looks at your life outside of caring and how being a unpaid carer impacts your goals. You can even ask to have this assessment done alongside the needs assessment for the person you care for.