Who are carers?

An carer is anyone, including children and adults, who provides unpaid care or support to a family member, partner or friend who needs help due to illness, frailty, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction, and cannot cope without their support.

We think Carers are amazing people and we’re here for you, you’re not alone.

Not Sure If You’re a Carer?

You may be a Carer without realising it. 

Many people see themselves as simply helping a partner, parent, child, relative or friend - but if someone could not manage without your support, you are an unpaid Carer.

You may be a Carer if you:

  • Help someone with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning or shopping
  • Provide emotional support or reassurance
  • Support with GP and hospital appointments, medication, or managing finances
  • Support someone with a physical disability or long-term illness
  • Care for someone with mental health needs, frailty or substance misuse issues
  • Help a family member stay safe, independent or connected

Caring can affect your own wellbeing, relationships, work, education and finances. You do not need to be a professional or full-time carer to access support.

At Teesside Mind, we support unpaid Carers across South Tees with practical advice, emotional wellbeing support and connections to local services. We also provide training and guidance for local businesses and GP practices to help them become more Carer-friendly and better support the needs of Carers.

Support for Carers & Professionals Across South Tees

We work with unpaid Carers across South Tees, alongside professionals and community organisations who support or work with Carers.

Find out more about the services, advice and support available.

Resources you may find useful

We know how important it is to have clear information or somewhere to turn quickly when you need some extra support.

So, here are links to other sources of information that may be useful for you.

We Care You Care - Help and support for all carers living across the South Tees area | We Care You Care

Carers Guide