Unpaid caregivers in Gateshead are being reminded of the emergency support services available to them as they continue to provide vital care to their loved ones. With an estimated 25,000 unpaid carers living in the borough, these individuals contribute approximately £660 million worth of care to the local economy every year.
To help manage unexpected situations, Gateshead Council provides a free emergency support service through Gateshead Care Call. This service offers up to 48 hours of emergency assistance, which can be extended over bank holidays if necessary. Caregivers are provided with an emergency identification card, which includes instructions on how to activate their pre-arranged support plan.
The council encourages residents to reach out for assistance at any time, as the emergency line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, on 0191 478 7666. Beyond emergency help, additional advice and support groups are available through Caregivers Connected Gateshead, a service delivered by the Carers Federation and funded by the council along with the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board.
A recent report published on 7 April 2026 by Caregivers Connected Gateshead highlighted that caring responsibilities remain the single biggest barrier for many people trying to enter or stay in work, with 53 per cent of working-age carers in the region currently out of paid employment. These services are part of an ongoing effort to support those in the community, despite the council facing significant financial pressures and a projected funding gap of £34.4 million identified in its medium-term financial planning.
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