Carers can often worry about what would happen in an emergency, if they had to go into hospital or are called away to care for another family member in crisis. A good way to do this is to draft your own Emergency Plan. A Carer's Emergency Plan(CEP) is a document containing vital information about what the carer does for the person they look after. The plan should ensure that vital help and support for the cared for person continues to be provided. If carers face an emergency they need to know that replacement care will get sorted out speedily and efficiently. For many, this may simply involve contacting a family member, friend or neighbour who is willing to cover in an emergency If the person you care for has a Care and Support Plan, or if you have your own Carers Support Plan these should include a contingency. Speak to your Social Worker, Assessment and Review officer or the Carers Centre for more information. As well as having your own Carer's Emergency Plan you can also request a Carer's Emergency Card. This is a credit card sized card that you can carry in your purse or wallet. It will identify you as a carer and holds a number to be contacted on your behalf in case of emergency. Whilst many feel that caring is one of the most important things they do, its challenges should not be underestimated. Caring without the right information and support can be tough.  Carers Leeds feel it is vitally important that we recognise the contribution carers make to their families and local communities, workplaces and society, and that they get the support they need. Carers Leeds we have listened to Carers and one of the things they have asked for is a Carers Emergency card. As part of celebrating Carers week they are promoting their new Carers Emergency Card which allows you to register with Carers Leeds and receive the card or request a card if you are already registered with us.

Adult social care and support

Sunderland City Council can point you towards the right organisations that may be able to help you. In order to be able to receive support from Sunderland City Council, you need to meet the national minimum eligibility criteria. They'll ask you some questions about your day-to-day life to work out what you need, this is called an assessment. This information will them be used to help meet your needs.

Many do not recognise themselves as carers.

They are parents, grandparents, children, partners, friends or neighbours doing what needs to be done to maintain a quality of life for those they are looking after. Sunderland Carers Centre is here to help you. Whether you are caring for young children, parents, grandparents, extended family members or friends, by adopting a “whole family” approach. Each member of a family will experience different caring roles and Sunderland Carers aim is to identify and support every need.