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Every year over 2 million people become carers. You may be taking on a caring role for the first time and don’t know what to expect. You are not alone. It is now important that you consider how your new caring situation is going to affect your life.
Choices and rights
It is your choice whether or not to look after your friend or relative. Just because you are unable to care for someone does not mean that you do not care about them. You need to think carefully about how much care you are realistically able to provide and what help you might need. You need to think about how caring might impact on other areas of your life - your job, your wider family, your social life, hobbies and interests.
You and Carers UK
Carers UK is here to help carers. We have the information and contacts you are likely to need during this time. These include: benefits, practical help, financial help and much more. Our website is full of information to help you.
If you can't find the advice and information you need on our website, CarersLine is open on Wednesday and Thursday from 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm. Call on 0800 808 7777
Carers UK is an organisation set up by carers, for carers. We campaign for a fair deal for the six million people in the UK whose lives are affected by caring.
Your first 10 steps to caring
It may seem like there's too much to take in at this stage. Don't worry, you're not on your own and there are people here to help. See the first 10 steps to caring to get you on the right footing.