Information for Carers

Supporting Carers in Essex

Supporting Carers in Essex is a group of charities working together to support unpaid carers of all ages across Essex. It provides a single contact point for carers anywhere in the county.

Carers or those calling on behalf of the carer can call 0300 7 70 80 90 (Monday to Friday, 9am – 4.30pm) for information and support, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Find out more on the Supporting Carers in Essex website.

Advice for carers

To make sure you get the most out of your GP appointment or home visits, it may be helpful to consider the following:

Prepare for the appointment

• If necessary, ask the surgery to make special arrangements for example, booking a double appointment.
• If you are accompanying your cared for to their appointment, they will need to confirm to the surgery that they are happy for the GP to share their health information with you.
• If you and your cared for both need to see the GP, ask for a double appointment so that there is enough time for the GP to speak to you both.

Consider asking for home visit

• If you care for someone who is housebound and has difficulty getting to the surgery, you can request a home visit.
• This is especially helpful when you are experiencing problems in booking respite or transport.
• Make sure you talk to the receptionist and explain that you are a carer and find it difficult getting to the surgery.

During the appointment

• If you have an appointment with your cared for, try not to discuss both your conditions at the same time. Each take a turn to speak with the GP.
• Consider taking notes about what the GP says so that you don’t forget important information.

Asking for letter from your GP

If you need a supporting letter from your GP, for example, for a housing benefit application:

• Ask if there will be a fee for the letter. This avoids inconvenience when you collect the letter from the surgery if payment is needed.
• Request the letter as soon as possible, as the process may take some time.

Prescriptions and pharmacies

• If your GP has written you or your cared for a prescription, you can ask them to send it to the local pharmacist.
• Pharmacies are recognised by the Primary Care Trust (PCT) as a service provider for carers. If needed, they may be able to deliver the medication to you.
• If you are uncertain about any treatments prescribed, discuss this with your GP.

Training, advice and information for carers

• GPs can give advice and information on medication and medical procedures and will work with you to make sure that your cared for receives the best possible care.
• Caring support organisations across mid Essex can also give you advice about lifting, moving and handling the person you care for. Check the leaflets rack and notice boards in your GP surgery or ask the receptionist if you need help.

More information

You can find out more about support for carers by visiting the Carers' Direct website.