Merton champions support for unpaid carers

Merton Council has partnered with the National Disability and Carers Card Scheme to fund National Carers Cards for carers looking after a family member or friend in the London Borough of Merton.

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The cards provide carers with proof of their caring role and access to a range of practical benefits, including discounts, access to emergency contacts, and support navigating everyday challenges.

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Edward Herbert, director of the National Disability and Carers Card Scheme, said:

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“Our new partnership with Merton Council provides meaningful support for carers in the borough, many of whom are unpaid and who balance work, family life, and caring responsibilities with limited recognition or financial assistance.

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“So many carers go unseen, so Merton’s decision to make the National Carers Card more accessible in the borough is a vital step in recognising and supporting their huge contribution. We anticipate that many other local authorities will follow Merton’s lead in recognising and assisting more carers across the UK.”

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Eligible carers in Merton can apply through the standard National Carers Card application process and will receive all the same benefits as other card holders, with the added reassurance that their local council is supporting the scheme, funding their card and actively supporting their caring role.

Merton Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, Councillor Peter McCabe, said:

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“Carers do fantastic work and are the unsung heroes of our community.

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“The Merton National Carers’ Card is a great idea because it will enable carers to devise an emergency plan, which can be easily accessed, should anything happen to them. Carers can also receive discounts from retailers on goods and services.   

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“We need to make sure that the carers are cared for, as well as the person they are looking after, and I’d encourage all carers to apply for the card and enjoy the benefits it offers.” 

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More than 5.7 million unpaid carers support loved ones across the UK.

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The National Carers Card exists to make their lives a little easier, offering peace of mind, practical support, and official recognition of the role they play.

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Who is eligible, and how to apply

To be eligible for the Merton National Carers Card, carers are to be registered with Carers First Merton as either an Adult Carer or a Young Carer and / or be known to Merton’s Adult Social Care service, and must carry out this role on a regular and an unpaid basis. The person they look after must live in the London Borough of Merton.

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Eligible carers can apply at nationalcarerscard.org.uk.

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About the National Carers Card

The National Carers Card is a form of visual identification for carers across the UK. Designed to support and acknowledge the invaluable role of carers, the card helps with accessing services, discounts, and other benefits that make daily life a little easier.

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Founded by carers in 2019, the National Carers Card is part of a social enterprise for good dedicated to supporting carers and their families.