Help for Carers
Are You an Unpaid Carer in Luton?
There are an estimated 19,000 unpaid carers in Luton.
An unpaid carer is someone who supports a family member, friend, or neighbour who cannot manage daily tasks due to illness, disability, mental health needs, or age-related conditions. Whether you live together or apart, you are a carer if you are helping someone regularly.
Typical caring responsibilities include:
- Personal care (washing, toileting, dressing, feeding)
- Emotional and mental health support
- Practical tasks like shopping, housework, or managing appointments
- 24-hour care and supervision
Even if you receive Carer’s Allowance, you’re still considered an unpaid or informal carer.
🔗 Visit Carers Central – Luton’s main carers support service for free local advice, guidance, and community support.
Luton Carer Resources & Information
Luton Carers’ Handbook
A vital resource for carers in Luton, now available in 11 languages including Arabic, Bengali, Gujarati, Italian, Lithuanian, Panjabi, Polish, Romanian, Tamil and Urdu.
Local Carer Support Services in Luton
- Luton Borough Council Adult Social Care
Offers care needs assessments, support plans, and services.
📞 01582 547659 / 547660 / 547653
🔗 Visit Adult Social Care - Luton Online Directory – A full listing of community, health, and support services
🔗 Search the Luton Directory - Luton Supporting You – Community-based support for independent living
🔗 Visit Luton Supporting You - Penrose / Social Interest Group (Mental Health and Housing Support)
🔗 SIG Penrose Website
National and Local Carer Support Organisations
- African Caribbean Carers Support Group (Luton) – 📞 01582 691990
- Total Wellbeing Carer Support (Mental & physical health services)
📞 0300 555 4152
Register as a Carer with Your GP
Telling your GP that you are a carer ensures:
- Access to free flu jabs
- Annual carer health checks
- Mental health and stress support for carers
📣 Ask your GP to add you to the carers register.
Carers at Work – Know Your Rights
Informing your employer that you’re a carer may entitle you to:
- Flexible working hours
- Carer’s leave
- Protection under employment law
Extra Services
- Beds Fire & Rescue – Home Safety Check
📞 0800 043 5042 - Luton Library Home Delivery Service
📞 01582 491428 - Blue Badge Scheme for Carers & Disabled People
📞 01582 510372
🔗 Help with Blue Badge Applications
Transport Services for Luton Carers
Caring for Your Own Wellbeing
Caring can be rewarding but emotionally and physically demanding. Remember to:
- Take regular breaks
- Connect with other carers
- Seek emotional support
- Use community and health services
Explore the Long-Term Conditions tab to access information on health conditions that may relate to the person you care for.