ICE For Carers: The First Step in Emergency Planning

According to Carers UK's State of Caring 2023 report, 78% of carers are worried about being unable to provide care in the future. It’s a striking figure — and it highlights a concern many unpaid carers quietly carry every day: what happens if something happens to you?

‍

Why carers' emergency planning is so important

In an emergency — whether it’s an accident, sudden illness, or being taken unexpectedly into hospital — the immediate risk isn’t just to your own wellbeing. It’s the person who depends on you. If no one knows you’re a carer, or who to contact, that person could be left without care, support, or even basic necessities.

‍

The problem is that many carers don’t have a clear, accessible emergency contact system in place. Even if you’ve mentioned your situation to a friend or family member, that information isn’t always easy for others to find when it matters most. Phone numbers stored in your contacts aren't accessible when the phone is locked, and important details can be missed in the urgency of the moment. That’s why some carers’ organisations recommend carrying a card in your purse or wallet stating that you are a carer — so others are immediately aware that they need to look out for someone else too.

‍

But simply stating that you are a carer is only part of the solution. In a real emergency, responders also need a fast, reliable way to contact someone who can step in.

‍

In case of emergency (ICE): get easy access to your emergency contact details

This is where the National Carers Card offers a practical and modern solution. As well as instantly identifying you as a carer, the card also addresses the key issue of emergency contact access. On the back of the card you'll find a QR code that can be scanned by first responders, paramedics, healthcare staff, or even members of the public. Within seconds, your designated emergency contact’s phone number becomes available — no need to unlock your phone or search for details. You don't even need a data connection to be able to access the number.

‍

The National Carers Card is credit-card sized, so it can be carried in your pocket or wallet, or worn around your neck on a lanyard, ensuring your emergency contact is easy to access.

‍

From a safety perspective, this speed and simplicity are vital. If you’re unable to communicate, the card ensures that someone who understands your caring responsibilities can be contacted immediately. That person is then in a position not only to help you, but also to check on the individual you care for, and arrange the support they need while you're unable to provide it.

‍

Next steps for carers' emergency planning

However, carrying an ICE card such as the National Carers Card should be seen as a first step towards emergency readiness — not the whole plan. Many carers' charities and organisations also recommend creating a more detailed emergency plan or contingency plan. This might include:

‍

‍

Ensuring you can get the right help in an emergency is the first step towards ensuring that the person you care for is never left without support - and may help alleviate those worries about not being able to care for someone if something happens.

‍

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.