The New Year often inspires us to set resolutions focused on self-improvement, health, and balance. But if you’re an unpaid carer, supporting a family member, friend, or loved one who couldn’t manage without your help, your resolutions might need to look a little different.
Caring for someone else can be deeply rewarding, but it can also be exhausting, isolating, and overwhelming. Many carers don’t even realise they are carers, let alone that support, tools, and recognition are available to them. Registering as a carer and applying for a National Carers Card can be a practical first step toward feeling seen, supported, and better equipped for the year ahead.
Here are some suggested New Year's resolutions tailored specifically to carers for 2026...
1. Recognising Yourself as a Carer
One of the biggest barriers carers face can be not realising that they are a carer! You might see yourself as “just” a partner, parent, child, sibling, or friend doing what needs to be done. But if you regularly provide unpaid support whether that’s personal care, emotional support, managing appointments, or helping someone stay safe and independent, you are a carer.
Acknowledging this role helps openthe door to support that can make your life easier and protect your own wellbeing.
2. Registering as a Carer Matters
Registering as a carer with your GP practice and local carers' support organisations can unlock access to practical help and information. This may include:
- Advice on benefits, grants, and financial support
- Connection with local support groups
- Flexible working conversations with employers
- Recognition in healthcare settings
3. Apply for the National Carers Card
A National Carers Card is a simple but powerful tool that fits in your wallet, ready to be shown in everyday situations where you may need understanding or support.
The National Carers Card can help:
- Give you confidence to ask for assistance and understanding from those around you
- Identify you as a carer in emergencies
- Access your emergency contact number via QR code if you choose
- Support access to concessions or discounts, depending on the venue
- Access hundreds of savings on everyday essentials from our partner brands
For many carers, the card also offers recognition and validation. It’s a quiet reminder that what you do matters and that you don’t have to explain and justify yourself every time.
About the National Carers Card
The National Carers Card, set up by carers in 2019, is a form of visual identification for carers across the UK. Designed to support and acknowledge the invaluable role of professional and unpaid carers, the card also helps with accessing discounts and other benefits that make daily life a little easier.
Conclusion
If you’re a carer looking to set resolutions this year, let one of them be this: take the help that’s available, take advantage of the tools available to you, and step into the year with a little more support by your side!
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