The term carer can include both unpaid and paid, or formal, care workers. Many carers are family members of people with a learning disability. Carers are often tired, working without a break. This group often includes elderly carers supporting their adult children who have a learning disability.

Some people with a learning disability prefer to refer to formal care workers as support workers. If you are not sure which term to use, ask the patient which they would prefer. An example of an unpaid or informal carer is a parent who cares for a child. When using NICE guidance the term carer refers to unpaid carers only. Paid care workers are referred to as staff.

Many people with a learning disability want to be spoken to directly, and given time to process information and to ask you questions about their health and medicines. Just like any patient, they will likely want your help with things that they find difficult.