New to caring? Basic support

If you are new to caring there is a lot to take in. Torbay Carers is here to make your life easier.

Step 1: Talk to someone

  • Call our Signposts for Carers information line on 01803 666620 or give Signposts. We will help you work out who is best to talk to.
  • There are Carer Support Workers at each Doctor’s Practice (read our information leaflet), at Carers’ Aid Torbay and at Torbay Hospital.
  • There are Specialist Support Workers for carers of adults with mental health, drug / alcohol misuse, dementia, autism or learning disability, autism.
  • If you are under 18 and or have left school and are 16 – 25, there is support for you.
  • Contact one of our Carer Support Workers for support

We have also listed some national carer support services further down this page.

Step 2: Join Torbay Carers

  • Join Torbay Carers for basic advice, information and support and to receive your Carer’s Passport. See the first box below.
  • Contact Signposts for Carers for a welcome pack by calling 01803 666620 or email Signposts.

Step 3: When you have time, find out more.

Our Carers Services Summary has brief details about local support. From support groups for parent carers, to a carer’s health and wellbeing check and much more.

Carer’s Passport Card

The Carers Passport card works as an emergency card with your back-up plan for the person you care for. It is also a discount card, which offers discounts at ‘carer-friendly’ shops, hotels and services in Torbay. The card can link you to support in hospitals, GPs, pharmacies and employment. It enables you to have free hospital parking when visiting or supporting the person you care for.

National support and resources

Many national organisations provide information and advice for carers, such as Carers UK and Carers Trust.

Carers UK digital offer gives every carer in Torbay free access to their digital resources. All you need is an email address.

Go to the Carers UK digital website, choose ‘create new account’ at the bottom right and use code DGTL8622. This code also gives free access to their Jointly App which can help you organise your caring role. This is particularly useful where other family members or agencies are involved.

If you aren’t confident on a computer contact Signposts on 01803 666620 who can link you to support with this.