We are a Carer Friendly GP Practice!
If you look after someone who couldn’t manage without your help, you may be an unpaid carer. Our practice is working with Devon Carers to ensure all unpaid carers registered with our surgery receive the best information, advice and support available to them.
How do I know if I am an unpaid carer?
- Do you look after someone?
- Do they have a medical condition, mental health illness or drug/alcohol addiction?
- Would they struggle to cope without your support?
If yes – you are an unpaid carer!
How can I access support?
Firstly, tell our receptionist that you are an unpaid carer – they will note this on your patient record and can make a referral to Devon Carers on your behalf.
We may be able to offer support such as:
- Longer appointment times for you to accompany the person you care for
- Offering you the opportunity to have a flu jab
- Signposting to local services to assist you
- Where appropriate, we will involve you in discussions around the persons care/treatment
We recommend that you register with Devon Carers. This is a service delivered by Devon-based charity Westbank and is commissioned jointly by Devon County Council and NHS Devon.
Devon Carers supports unpaid carers with the opportunity to access information, advice, and services such as:
- Peer Support groups
- Carers skills workshops
- Carers Break Fund
- Carers Assessment
- Carer Friendly Devon
- Quarterly magazine
- Helpline
- Help with planning for an emergency
- Carers Passport with Carers ID card
To register with Devon Carers:
- Online: Register for support – Devon Carers
- Helpline: 03456 434 435 Or ask a member of our staff, who will be able to make a referral on your behalf.
Inform your GP!
As a carer, we know you have a busy lifestyle, which is why we are offering additional support and flexible appointments to fit in with your existing commitments.
Fill out the form below to let your GP know and you will be given access to the right information, support, and services. (If you care for more than one individual, then please fill out a form for each person in your care.)
Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are compulsory.
The information you supply us will be used lawfully, in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998. The Data Protection Act 1998 gives you the right to know what information is held about you, and sets out rules to make sure that this information is handled properly.
Please note that by using this form you will be sending information about yourself across the Internet. Whilst every effort is made to keep this information secure, you should be aware that we cannot offer any guarantees of absolute privacy. If this matter concerns you then you should use another method of registration.
Personal information retained on this system is stored in a secure data centre located in the UK and is treated as confidential.
Additional Information
There is a wealth of information online about carers and caring:
- Social Care & Support Guide
If you or someone you know needs help with day-to-day living because of illness or disability, this website explains your options and where you can get support. - Help From Social Services & Charities
Includes helplines, needs assessments, advocacy and reporting abuse. - Taking a break
Caring for someone can be a full-time job, but it’s essential that you take time out for yourself too. Read his guide to accessing breaks and respite. - Care Homes
Moving into a care home is a big decision and it can cost a lot of money. Before choosing a care home for you or someone you know, it’s worth considering all of the options.
For more information, please contact our Carers Champion (Jess) on 01392 255722 or email jessica.madge@nhs.net
Page created: 25th November 2015
Page updated: 10th October 2025