Most of the carer centres in the UK are run by independent charities and are network partner of Carers Trust, a major charity for, with and about carers.
Carer centres work to improve support, services and recognition for anyone living with the challenges of caring, unpaid, for a family member or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or addiction problems.
The Carers Trust Network supports carers locally through a unique UK-wide network of 150 network partners.
The service offered by each Carer Centre varies but can include:
– Support for working carers and employers
– Emotional and practical support for carers including providing care in the home to enable carers to take a break
– Outreach work in the community in GP surgeries, hospital wards and schools to reach carers who haven’t come forward for support
– Information and advice on issues such as benefits, grants and other help available
– Giving carers a voice so that they are listened to by local decision makers
– Helping carers to share experiences through group support and social activities
– Support to access education, training and employment
– Supporting young carers through preventative measures, whole family work, clubs, activities and mentoring in schools
