Every individual's needs are different, but well-planned and good quality services can offer support & `share the care' of people who cannot manage alone at home. This leaflet provides a clear statement of what needs to be done, so that carers - and the people they care for - can lead full and independent lives. It is endorsed by the National Schizophrenia Fellowship, Crossroads Care, GLAD, Alzheimer's Disease Society, Age Concern, Carers' National Association and Contact-a-Family. A companion book `A new deal for carers' describes practical ways to meet carers' needs based on examples in good practice.