A carer provides help to someone else who needs it. This may be physical, emotional or social care. It may involve a lot of daily input or more occasional help.

Most family carers want to take full responsibility for the person they look after. Asking for additional help outside the family is often difficult. However, when demands on the carer increase, it is often very helpful to have a way of organising short breaks.

Help and Care is an independent charity who receive funding from Dorset County Council in order to provide support services to adult carers and carers groups.

Who is a young carer? Do you look after or help a parent? Is this because they are ill, disabled or have problems with drugs, alcohol or their mental health?