Lancashire Carers Service

If you look after a family member, friend or neighbour who could not manage without your help, you are a carer.

We know carers play a vital role in helping people live independently and stay connected to their communities. Looking after someone can be rewarding, but it can also affect your own health and wellbeing.

The Lancashire Carers Service offers information, advice and practical support to help you in your caring role.

The service can provide:

• a 24-hour carers advice line

• help to create an emergency plan if you are suddenly unable to provide care

• befriending and sitting services, so you can take a break from caring

• online information, advice and resources

• support from people who understand the challenges of caring

Many people do not think of themselves as carers. They see themselves as helping someone they care about.

You may be a carer if you provide unpaid support to an adult because of their age, illness, disability or other needs.

For example, you might help someone with:

• washing, dressing or eating

• attending appointments

• shopping or household tasks

• managing medication

• emotional support and companionship

You could be caring for a partner, parent, child, relative, friend or neighbour.

A carers assessment helps us understand how caring affects your life and whether additional support may help.

You may be able to request an assessment if you are:

• an unpaid carer for an adult aged 18 or over

• a young carer under the age of 18

• caring for a disabled child under 18

During the assessment we will talk about:

• your caring responsibilities

• your health and wellbeing

• work, education or volunteering

• relationships with family and friends

• whether you are able to take breaks and do the things that matter to you

The assessment may identify support for you, the person you care for, or both.

To find out more about the Lancashire Carers Service:

• complete an enquiry form on the Lancashire Carers Service website

• call 0345 688 7113

• email the service directly

You can also access support through Carers Count.

To request a carers assessment, contact Adult Social Care on 0300 123 6720.

You can also ask your GP, health visitor or a voluntary organisation to contact us on your behalf.