Caring for someone with dementia can be exhausting and overwhelming – physically, emotionally and financially. But support is available. Registering as a carer with your GP is one way to access this support.
If you register as a carer with your GP, it will enable them to support you in your caring role. What is offered varies between practices, but it often includes:
All GP practices have a carers’ register – a list of patients who are providing unpaid care to someone with a long-term health condition. You can speak to the receptionist or practice manager to request a registration form.
Alternatively, Carers UK has produced a template letter that you can complete and send to your GP.
Once you have told your GP that you are a carer, they can add this information to your patient record and help you to start getting the support you need.
Some GP practices have a separate register for young carers, so if a child or teenager under the age of 18 is helping to care for a person with dementia, it is a good idea to ask if this is available.
You do not have to register as a carer with your GP to access support and benefits such as a carer’s assessment, young carer’s assessment or Carer’s Allowance. However, if you do register, you may be offered support with these applications and assessments.
To speak to a dementia specialist Admiral Nurse about registering as a carer with your GP or any other aspect of dementia, please call our free Dementia Helpline on 0800 888 6678 (Monday-Friday 9am-9pm; Saturday and Sunday 9am-5pm), email helpline@dementiauk.org or you can book a phone or video call appointment with an Admiral Nurse.
Our free, confidential Dementia Helpline is staffed by our dementia specialist Admiral Nurses who provide information, advice and support with any aspect of dementia.
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