As an unpaid carer, your health and well-being are just as important as those you look after. If you don't prioritise your own care, your ability to help the person you're caring for can be affected.
Let your GP know you're an unpaid carer so they can better support you. We've partnered with Teesside Mind to make this easy. Download the GP Surgery Identification Registration Form below and hand it in or email it to your surgery.
Healthwatch South Tees also has a top tips booklet for accessing your GP - Take a Look
Making GP Surgeries More 'Carer Friendly' Across South Tees
Across South Tees, efforts are underway to help GP surgeries become more supportive of unpaid carers. Susan Lee, Primary Care Co-ordinator at Teesside Mind, is leading this work as part of the funded services by Middlesbrough Council and Redcar and Cleveland Council which include Carers Together, The Junction Foundation and Teesside Mind.
The initiative encourages GP practices to use NHS England’s Carers Quality Markers - a framework developed with input from carers, healthcare staff, and national bodies - to assess and improve how they identify and support carers.
Key actions include:
- Appointing a Carers Ambassador within each surgery to lead on carer support.
- Identifying hidden carers through patient contact and encouraging self-identification.
- Raising awareness by sharing 'Carer Friendly' status on practice websites, materials, and events.
- Improving access by offering flexible appointments and health checks tailored to carers’ needs.
- Training staff and supporting those who are carers themselves with policies like flexible working.
These changes aim to ensure carers are recognised, supported, and able to maintain their own well-being while continuing their vital role.
GP surgeries are encouraged to take a look at the GP Practice Carer Friendly Checklist and connect with Susan Lee to learn more or get involved.
Email: susan.lee@teessidemind.org.uk
Phone: 01642 257020 or 07543 309039
Accredited Carer Friendly GP Surgeries in South Tees
The following GP surgeries have achieved Carer Friendly Status:
Green House Surgery, Redcar - Find out more
Newlands Medical Centre, Middlesbrough - Find out more
The following GP surgeries are 'working towards' carer friendly status (July 2025):
South Grange Medical Centre, Middlesbrough
Hillside Practice, Skelton
Brotton Surgery, Brotton
Coulby Medical Practice, Middlesbrough