Media release
Wednesday, 19th November 2025
Supporting Greater Manchester’s carers this winter
As Carers Rights Day approaches, NHS Greater Manchester is reminding unpaid carers that their own health and wellbeing are just as important as the person they support.
Every day, around 12,000 people across the UK become unpaid carers for a partner, family member or friend, often without realising they’ve taken on this vital role. Many are unaware of the practical help, legal rights, and financial support available to them.
Across Greater Manchester, thousands of people provide unpaid care for a loved one, from elderly parents to friends with disabilities or long-term conditions. This winter, NHS Greater Manchester is encouraging carers to take small but important steps to stay well, safe and connected.
Practical tips for carers this winter
- Keep up to date with vaccinations: Make sure both you and the person you care for have had your flu jab and COVID-19 booster if eligible. These are free for eligible unpaid carers and available through GP practices, pharmacies, or walk-in clinics.
- Look after your mental wellbeing: Caring can be rewarding but also demanding. Take time to rest, talk to someone, or access local support such as 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Helpline (GMMH). It offers out-of-hours mental health support for residents across Greater Manchester. Call 0800 953 0285
- Plan ahead if you become unwell: If you catch a winter illness, have a back-up plan so the person you care for can continue to receive the support they need. Your local council can provide information on emergency or respite care options.
- Keep your home safe and warm: Falls prevention advice, heating support and financial help are available via your local council or through winter wellbeing hubs across Greater Manchester. Find details at GMCA Winterwise.
Staying well and getting the right care
Carers often put their own health last, but it’s essential to look after yourself. Pharmacies can help with many minor health concerns and medicines advice. Pharmacists can help with a wide range of minor health issues and advice on managing medicines. For urgent care needs that aren’t life-threatening, use NHS 111 online or by phone, or download the NHS App to check symptoms, book appointments and order repeat prescriptions.
Support and advice for carers
Carers can also ask their local council for a carer’s assessment to explore what support could make caring easier. Many areas offer drop-in sessions and support groups where carers can share experiences and get practical advice.
For those balancing caring with work, local schemes such as the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter ,WorkWell and the Greater Manchester Working Carer Toolkit can help employers and employees to find flexible solutions.
Joanne Chilton, Director of Adult Social Care Transformation at NHS Greater Manchester, said: “Carers play an invaluable role in our communities, but we know it can take a toll on their own health and wellbeing.
“This Carers Rights Day, we want to make sure carers know they are not alone. There is practical help and local support available to help them stay well and continue caring safely.”
Visit NHS GM for information on winter wellbeing, carers’ support, and staying healthy this winter.
ENDS
Carer Support Services
- Carers Manchester
Offers a dedicated helpline, advice, and support for unpaid carers in Manchester.
0161 543 8000 carersmanchester.org.uk
- Gaddum Carers Service
Supports carers with a free dedicated helpline, events, activities, and community support. 0161 543 8000 gaddum.org.uk/carers/manchester-services/
- Crossroads Together
Offers information, advice, and practical support to unpaid carers of all ages.
0333 323 1990 crossroadstogether.org.uk
- Carers UK – Carers Rights Day | Carers UK
- Warm Spaces (GMCA)
Lists free, warm spaces across Greater Manchester for those in need during the colder months.
greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk/what-we-do/helping-hand/warm-spaces/
Media enquiries to gmhscp.media@nhs.net