• It is estimated there are around 7 million carers in the UK providing unpaid help and support to a partner, relative, friend or neighbour who is frail, ill or disabled.

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• There are an estimated 18,000 unpaid carers in Telford and Wrekin.

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• Carers can be of any age, from any cultural or social background.

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• Many people do not consider themselves to be a carer as they may just be looking after one or both parents, their adult child, or best friend - simply getting on with it and doing what anyone would in the same situation.

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• A lot of people who are carers don't recognise themselves as such because they live with the person they are caring for.

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• Carers may think they can't be carers because they don't live with the person they support.
   

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• The term carer should not be confused with a care worker or care assistant, who receives payment for looking after someone.

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• A carer doesn't have to be someone who lives with the person they care for or be related to them.

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• Carers often live with the person they care for but this isn't always the case.

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• Carers provide care because of the relationship they have with the cared-for person.  Most do it willingly but some feel they have no choice.

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• The physical and emotional wellbeing of a carer can be compromised by their caring role.

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• Caring for someone can be a rewarding experience but it can also be lonely, boring frustrating and stressful.

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• As a carer you are entitled to support in your caring role, by law.