A carer is anyone who provides unpaid help to a relative, partner, friend or neighbour. Recognising that you are a carer is often the first step towards getting the support you deserve.

Please tell us if you are a carer, whatever your age. Support is available for carers from the age of five upwards.

We will do our best to offer flexible appointment times that fit around your caring responsibilities, and we can arrange health checks so you do not neglect your own wellbeing — something carers tell us happens all too easily.

Caring can be deeply rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Carers Trust Hillingdon offers free advice, groups and practical help across the borough.

Carers Trust Hillingdon can help with

• Advice centre on the High Street opposite Tesco in Uxbridge

• Welfare benefits advice, including help in Urdu, Punjabi and Hindi

• Training, hobbies, book clubs, craft groups and IT sessions

• Carer cafés, peer support and one-to-one emotional support

• Health and wellbeing activities including yoga, mindfulness and pamper days

• Specialist mental health and dementia support

• Activities for young carers, including holiday clubs and trips

• Help accessing care or referrals to other services

All services are free of charge. Call 01895 811206 to register.

NHS information for carers

The NHS website has excellent guides on care and support, benefits, respite, work and disability, and support for young carers under 18.