There are more than 5 million people in England who look after an ill or disabled partner, child, relative or friend. Caring for someone with arthritis can be a varied and demanding job. This is because of the broad range of medical, personal and emotional needs that a person with arthritis can have.
If you're caring for a family member, you may not consider yourself a carer because you're just doing what needs to be done. You might feel that you have no other options. This can be stressful and you may feel resentful towards the person you're caring for, which can also leave you feeling guilty. You may have been forced to leave your job, give up hobbies and stop socialising, which can be very isolating.
It's important to remember that you're not alone and that there is support available. By law you're entitled to a free health and social care assessment, which you can access through your local authority. The assessment will determine whether you can get practical and financial help. You can find out about assessments on Carers Direct.
Being a carer means that you may be entitled to certain financial benefits, especially if you have to give up work. Find out more about carers' benefits on Carers Direct. Carers can also get help with breaks from caring from local authorities or organisations such as Crossroads Care. You can find out about getting time off on Carers Direct.
