A carer is someone who looks after a relative, partner or friend who because of disability, illness or old age, cannot manage without help. This includes parents or others bringing up a child with a disability.
Carers are usually relatives, neighbours or friends of the people they care for. Caring can be very rewarding but it can also be tiring and stressful.
If you are a carer and would like some advice or support you can contact us. We can offer services or equipment for your home and give you information about other council services that may be able to help you.
There are also a number of voluntary organisations that provide support, information, and advice to carers and some also provide advocacy or services directly. The 'Choices for carers' booklet attached to this page contains a list of these, as well information about your rights as a carer. Please contact us if you would like us to post you a copy of this booklet.
If you want someone to talk to about your caring responsibilities you can also ring the Leeds Carers on 0113 246 8338 or visit their website.
Young carers
Young carers are children and young people who are the main carers of a sick or disabled parent or sibling. Estimates of the number of young carers in the UK vary between 15,000 and 50,000.
Young carers face serious caring responsibilities. In addition to the daily tasks they complete for their parents such as housework, cooking and bathing, they live with the added pressure of school and, often, a lack of understanding from schoolmates. The physical and emotional strain is sometimes too much - many skip school and suffer depression.
If you are a carer under the age of 16 years who is providing care, including secondary care, to a vulnerable adult over 18 years you can contact Willow from the link on this page. Willow is a partnership between Barnardos and the department of Social Services at Leeds City Council. This service works with young people who care for someone with an illness or a disability.
You can also contact the National Youth Agency which is an information shop for young people is part of a national network of 'shops'. It provides a free and confidential information, advice and support service for young people between the ages of 14 and 25.
Other useful contacts
Carers UK - Carers UK is the voice of carers and the leading campaigning, policy and information organisation for carers.
For information and advice on all aspects of caring visit their website or call their helpline - CarersLine - on 0808 808 7777
Childline - for young people wishing to speak about their problem. Telephone 0800 1111 for confidential counselling.
Children's Society - for young carers, their families and those who work to support them across the UK.