One in eight of us has a degree of a caring role, whether that is caring for a partner or older relative. This can feel like a juggle to the carer, who may be working, parenting or have other responsibilities. As care and support needs slowly accrue over time, it can be difficult for carers to see their caring role as separate from the relationship they have with the person they care for.
When people act out of love and responsibility it can be hard to recognise that things have changed. Many carers do not see themselves as carers and it takes an average of two years for someone with caring responsibilities to acknowledge their role. Carers can experience caring fatigue and may need to spend extra time looking after their own wellbeing.
Planning ahead and knowing what additional support is available, and what rights carers have, can be useful. MS-UK have a page on support for carers. This covers local and national carer support organisations, young carers, adult carers, working carers, breaks from caring and financial help.
