Caring for a loved one? Support for unpaid carers
Last reviewed: June 2026
Looking after someone who could not manage without you, whether a partner, a parent, a friend or a neighbour, is one of the most loving things a person can do. It can also be tiring, and at times lonely, and it is all too easy to put your own needs last. Many carers do not even think of themselves as carers, feeling they are simply doing what needs doing. But recognising your caring role matters, because once you do, there is a good deal of help and support available. This page sets out what is there for you. For the money side, do see our separate guide on Carer's Allowance and Carer's Credit.
You are not on your own
There are millions of unpaid carers across the country, and a great many right here in our own area. However it came about, whether gradually over the years or almost overnight, you do not have to manage it all alone, and asking for help is a sign of strength, not of failing.
Your right to a carer's assessment
As a carer, you have a legal right to a free carer's assessment, and it is all about you, not the person you care for. It looks at how caring affects your life, your health and your own plans, and at what would make things easier, from a regular break to practical help at home. In Derbyshire, these assessments are carried out by Derbyshire Carers Association, and you can arrange one by calling them on 01773 833833. The assessment can lead to support, and sometimes to a Carer Personal Budget, which is a sum of money, not means-tested, that you can spend on things that genuinely help you in your caring role, or that give you a well-earned break.
Taking a break
Everyone needs a rest, and that is especially true when you are caring. Short breaks, sometimes called respite, can be arranged so that you can have a little time to yourself, whether that is a few hours while someone sits with the person you care for, day services they can enjoy, or a short stay in a care home. The first step is often a needs assessment for the person you look after, and our guide on getting a care needs assessment explains how to arrange one.
Planning for the unexpected
One worry that many carers share is what would happen to their loved one if they themselves were suddenly taken ill or had an accident. It is well worth putting a plan in place for exactly that. Derbyshire offers a Carers Emergency Card and will help you draw up an emergency plan, so that if something does happen to you, the right people know who you care for and can step in quickly. It brings real peace of mind, and you can set it up through Derbyshire Carers Association or the council.
Looking after your own health and wellbeing
Your own health matters every bit as much as the health of the person you care for, so please do not neglect it. Do let your GP surgery know that you are a carer, as many keep a register that can mean a free flu jab, more flexible appointments, and a little extra understanding. Caring can take an emotional toll too, and feelings of guilt, frustration, grief or sheer exhaustion are completely normal, and nothing to be ashamed of. Talking to others who understand can help enormously, whether at one of Derbyshire Carers Association's support groups, or through Mobilise, a free online community for carers. Our guide on looking after your mental health may be of help too.
If you work as well as care
Juggling a job and caring is no small thing, and you do have some rights at work to help. You are entitled to up to a week's unpaid carer's leave each year if you are looking after someone with a long-term care need, and you can ask your employer for flexible working from your very first day in a job. You also have the right to reasonable time off to deal with an emergency involving someone who depends on you.
Money and benefits
Caring can take a toll on your finances, too, and there is help worth claiming, including Carer's Allowance, Carer's Credit, extra amounts in Pension Credit, and a possible reduction in your Council Tax. Our guide on Carer's Allowance and Carer's Credit explains it all, and the Derbyshire Welfare Rights Service, on 01629 531535, can give free, expert benefits advice.
Support for particular situations
If you care for someone living with dementia, or you are helping a loved one home after a stay in hospital, we have separate guides on memory worries and dementia and on coming home from hospital that you may find useful.
A friendly voice, for you or for them
Caring can leave precious little time for your own company, and it can be isolating for the person you care for too. A regular, friendly phone call can lift the spirits of both, and our befriending service here at BrightLife is always glad to help.
Where to get help, locally and nationally
Close to home, across Chesterfield, Bolsover and North East Derbyshire:
- Derbyshire Carers Association, on 01773 833833 or info@derbyshirecarers.co.uk, for advice, a carer's assessment, support groups and emergency planning.
- Call Derbyshire, on 01629 533190, for a needs assessment for the person you care for.
- The Derbyshire Welfare Rights Service, on 01629 531535, for free benefits advice.
Across the country:
- Carers UK, on 0808 808 7777, for free advice and support for carers.
- Mobilise, at mobiliseonline.co.uk, a free online community for unpaid carers.
- MoneyHelper, on 0800 138 7777, for free help with money matters.