Carers Information Service: Free Wellbeing & Mental Health Service in Croydon

## What is the Carers Information Service? The Carers Information Service, part of the John Whitgift Foundation, provides free information, advice, training, advocacy and support to anyone in Croydon who is caring for a family member, friend or neighbour with an illness, disability or frailty. Since opening in 2013, they have grown to support over 7,000 registered Croydon carers and receive over 25,000 enquiries each year. They run the Carers Support Centre, a one-stop shop for carers at 24 George Street, Croydon. The centre offers advice surgeries covering mental health, legal rights, employment, welfare rights, and special educational needs (SEND). ## Who Can Use the Carers Information Service? The service is for anyone in Croydon who is caring for a family member, friend or neighbour with an illness, disability or frailty. This includes carers of people with mental health conditions. You don't need to be a registered carer or receiving any benefits - if you provide support to someone who couldn't manage without you, you're welcome. Some services are only available to Croydon residents. ## How Do I Access the Carers Information Service? Visit the Carers Support Centre at 24 George Street, Croydon, CR0 1PB (opposite George Street tram stop). Opening hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 1pm. You can also call **020 8649 9339** or visit carersinfo.org.uk. The Drop-in Carers Cafe is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:30am to 12:30pm. ## What Should I Expect? All services are free. The Drop-in Carers Cafe offers free hot drinks with access to books, games, Wi-Fi and a laptop - a chance to take a break and connect with other carers. Their team of advice workers can discuss your caring situation and connect you with specialist organisations. They also run carers' support groups and an IT buddy scheme for basic computer support.