If you are a full-time carer, looking after a loved one or friend, you need to look after yourself as well. If you become ill, or injure yourself, you may not be able to provide the necessary level of care, and the person you want to look after may have to be admitted for respite care whilst you recover.

Here are some things that may help you:-

• Carers are used to fighting for their rights, but your legal rights are improving. 

• You have certain rights to financial help.

• You are entitled to a "Carers Assessment"You have a right to receive direct payments (You decide on the best way to spend the budget)

• You have certain rights in the workplace.

• If the person you care for has limited mobility, consider doing a course on "Moving and Handling (People)"

• You will be taught how to move someone without hurting yourself, or them. You only have one back, and once it is damaged, it takes a long time to heal.

• Ask for help early. If you wait until you are exhausted, you are not helping your loved one. See www.carersuk.org/help-and-advice/practical-help/care-and-support

Options include:

• Ask family and friends to help out on a paid or unpaid basis

• Employing a carer

• Hire a care worker from a care agency

• Arrange time in a care home so you can have a rest (respite care)

• Get support from your local council or trust, such as a day centre and respite, and offering cash so you can employ your own care.

• Where possible, you should discuss these options with the person you care for. Explain that you cannot do everything all the time. Explain that you still care, but that you need help.

• Talk to the rest of the family - Make sure they understand what is needed.