How to use your National Carers Card

Being a carer is a role full of responsibility, dedication, and often invisible challenges. Whether you’re supporting a loved one at home, helping them navigate public spaces, or simply trying to balance everyday life, you may find yourself repeatedly explaining your situation just to access understanding, assistance, or concessions.

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The National Carers Card was created to take away some of that pressure. It’s a simple, secure form of identification that recognises your role as a carer, giving you peace of mind and making everyday interactions smoother. From gaining access to discounts to saving money on essentials, to avoiding uncomfortable conversations, the card is a practical tool designed to support you.

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In this blog, we’ll explore the key benefits of the National Carers Card and how to make the most our of your National Carers Card.

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1. A Visual Tool That Speaks for You

One of the most valuable aspects of the card is its ability to reduce the need for constant explanations. Instead of justifying why you may need extra time, support, or understanding, you can present the card as proof of your role.

The card includes the internationally recognised Symbol of Access and a number of secure design features, making it credible and easy for others to understand at a glance.

“Since receiving the National Carers Card and wearing it I have found that people are more respectful and offer assistance.” - Terence

Here are some common situations where carers have found it particularly useful:

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🚂 On public transport - helping secure a seat or extra assistance

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✈️ At airports - allowing staff to direct you to the right lane or avoid a queue when travelling with the person you care for

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🏟 At events and shops - staff and visitors often show greater awareness and offer support

“Fantastic card scheme for carers.  My wife is disabled, we have assisted travel at the airport when going on holiday and the National Carers Card is a great tool to help me to show people that I am a registered carer.” - Raymond

💡 How to get this benefit: Simply show your card whenever you feel it would help others recognise your role as a carer. You can even wear it on one of our lanyards for extra visibility.

“Wearing a National Carers Card has made a world of difference; when visiting theatres in our area with my wife in a wheelchair, people see the badge and are more than happy to help.” - Michael

2. Exclusive Savings on Everyday Essentials

As a National Carers Card holder, you could save hundreds of pounds a year on everyday essentials. Through our exclusive partnerships with popular brands, card holders get access to exclusive discount codes for health and wellbeing, mobility, fashion, and more.

“The card has already paid for itself.” - Anna

💡 How to get this benefit: Browse our Discounts and Benefits page for the brand you want to shop with, and log in with your unique card number to access exclusive codes to use when shopping online.

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3. Save Hundreds Every Year with Discounted Gift Cards

Beyond just discount codes, card holders are also eligible for savings on all your favourite supermarkets and high street brands - including savings of just under £100 per year on groceries alone*. Buy a discounted gift card through our portal and your gift card will arrive in your inbox instantaneously. It's so simple you can do it while you're queuing for the till.

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💡 How to get this benefit: Click 'See all gift cards' at the top of our Discounts and Benefits page to access our gift card portal. Search for the brand you want to shop with and check out securely online within 2 minutes - your discount will be automatically applied. Learn more about saving with discounted gift cards.

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‍Making the Most of Your Card

The National Carers Card is more than just visual ID — it’s a practical tool designed to ease daily stresses, make life more affordable, and give carers confidence in their role. Keep it handy, don’t be shy about using it, and let it work for you in situations where validation or support could make a difference.

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With it, you’ll not only save money but also gain peace of mind in knowing your role as a carer is recognised and respected.

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*Based on the average household's yearly grocery spend and the average supermarket discount available to card holders.