Support for family, friends and carers

Designated carers

A designated carer is a person nominated by a patient in a mental health facility. There can be up to two designated carers for the same person.  

Some examples of designated carers include:

• the spouse or partner
• a person who has primary responsibility for providing support and care
• a close friend or relative who is in frequent contact with the person
• a parent if the person is under the age of 14
• a person appointed as a Guardian.

Principal care providers

The principal care provider is the person who is primarily responsible for providing day to day support and care.  They can also be a designated carer. They have the same rights to information as the designated carer.  

The principal care provider can be selected by an authorised medical officer.

Staying informed

If you are the nominated designated carer or a principal care provider, you have the right to receive updates on the persons treatment and Tribunal proceedings. The hospital has the obligation to keep you informed. You may receive a formal notice or a telephone call to update you of upcoming Tribunal dates.

If you are not the nominated designated carer or principal care provider, you do not have the same rights to information.

Getting help for my family member or friend

If you have concerns about the mental health of your family member or friend, you can call your local acute care team or ambulance, who can schedule a person.

Getting help as a carer

If you are a carer you can get help and support from the government and other organisations. For more information, see:

• Services and support on the Carer Gateway website, if you are an unpaid carer. 
• Getting support if you’re caring for someone on the Services Australia website, if you are a paid carer
• Guardian support services on the NSW Trustee and Guardian website, if you are a private or enduring Guardian. 
• Support for private financial managers on the NSW Trustee and Guardian website, if you are a private financial manager
• Resource library on the Mental Health Carers NSW website.