Support in a carer emergency is available to all unpaid carers who care for adults. If you have an emergency situation the service makes sure that the person you help care for is safe, and their care needs are met.
How to register
There is no need to register in advance for support in a carer emergency.
How it works
In an emergency, you need to call Social Care Direct on 03000 267 979. They will transfer you to a Duty Officer who will ask you for a few details such as your name and address and information on the person you care for. The Duty Officer will:
- Check if there is any family or friends that can assist in case of emergency.
- If family or friends can't be contacted, we will send a care assistant to provide care/support to the person you care for.
- Contact the person you care for and inform him/her of what has happened (if that is appropriate).
- Keep you informed of the outcome if possible.
Who provides the service
Support in a carer emergency is delivered by Supportive through the Short Term Assistance Service.
Please note that, while initial support in a carers emergency is provided free of charge, should an ongoing service be required you may be required to contribute to the cost, in line with the Council's charging policy. The Duty Officer or a relevant social work team will discuss this with you, should ongoing service be required.
Carer Emergency Card
A Carer Emergency Card is available from Durham County Carers Support, which enables you to record the name of the person you are caring for and contact details for up to two additional people who know them. The contact number for Social Care Direct is also included on the card.
If you would like a Carer Emergency Card, please visit Durham County Carers Support’s Carer Support in an Emergency page.