Carers

Are you a carer?

Many people care for years without using the word. If you help someone with things like medication, appointments, washing, dressing, shopping or simply keeping them safe — whether you live with them or not — you are a carer. You do not need to be paid, related, or doing it full time for support to apply. Young people who help look after someone at home are young carers and can get support of their own.

Tell the practice you are a carer

Ask reception to record you as a carer on your medical record. It takes a minute, and it means:

• You are offered a free flu vaccination each year
• We can take your caring role into account when arranging appointments
• The team understands your situation without you having to explain it each time

If the person you care for is also our patient, you can ask about recording their consent for us to share relevant information with you — reception can explain how this works.

Local and national support

VOCAL Midlothian Carers Centre

vocal.org.uk · 0131 663 6869 — free advice, emotional support, respite planning and carer training for anyone caring in Midlothian

Care Information Scotland

careinfoscotland.scot · 0800 011 3200 — national advice on care services, carer rights and benefits

Every carer in Scotland has the right to an Adult Carer Support Plan (or Young Carer Statement) from the local council — VOCAL can help you arrange one.

Look after your own health

Caring can affect your sleep, mood and physical health. Please do not put off your own appointments — tell us you are a carer and we will do our best to arrange times that work around your caring role. If you are struggling, our mental health and wellbeing page lists support you can contact directly.