Because caring for others shouldn’t mean sacrificing your own sanity.
Whether you’re working 12-hour shifts or juggling clients with complex needs, being a carer demands everything — your time, your focus, and your heart.
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to do it all alone.
There are powerful, free resources out there to help you stay organised, protect your mental health, and take back control of your day.
We’ve pulled together our top 10 to help you work smarter, not harder — and stay resilient through it all.
1. Big Sister’s Resilient Carers YouTube Playlist
A collection of short, practical videos created just for you — to uplift, encourage, and offer actionable advice for real-life caring.
Watch now on YouTube @bigsistercare
2. NHS Every Mind Matters Toolkit
Your mental health matters too. This free resource helps you build a mind plan, cope with stress, sleep better, and find support for low mood or anxiety.
3. Care Companion (UK)
Created by carers, for carers — this tool helps you create personalised support plans, access local services, and stay in control of daily care responsibilities.
4. MyShiftPlanner App
Free app to manage shift patterns, rest days, and alerts. No more missed appointments or overbooking yourself — stay organised and avoid burnout.
Available on iOS and Android.
5. Mind’s Wellness Action Plans (WAPs)
Designed to help you spot the signs of stress early and create a personalised plan to stay well at work. A lifesaver when you’re dealing with emotional exhaustion.
6. Carers UK Digital Resource Hub
A treasure trove of free e-learning, factsheets, guides, and wellbeing tools. Whether you’re new to care or seasoned and stretched, there’s something here for you.
7. Sleepio App (Free via NHS)
Quality sleep changes everything. Sleepio is an evidence-based app that helps carers improve their sleep naturally — especially if you struggle to switch off after a long shift.
8. Time Out: Guided Breathing Tool
You don’t always need a full spa day. Sometimes, 2 minutes of deep breathing is enough to hit reset. This simple online tool walks you through calming techniques that work fast.
9. Big Sister’s Monthly Resilient Sister Email Series
Sign up to receive monthly inspiration, practical self-care tips, free printable resources, and reminders that you are not alone. Built for carers, by carers who get it.
Join the list at bigsistercare.com/resilientcarers
10. Safeguard Mental Health Check-In Cards
Designed in collaboration with frontline care workers, these printable cards give you or your team an easy way to check in on wellbeing. Use them in team meetings, handovers, or privately at home.
Available soon — sign up to Big Sister to get first access.
Bonus: You Are the Most Important Tool in the Toolkit
All the apps, checklists, and videos in the world are helpful — but they only work if you’re still standing.
So, pause. Breathe. Check in with yourself.
You matter, too.
If you need a community that understands the weight you carry and cheers for your success — you’ve found it.
Tell Us What Helps You
Got a go-to tool we missed?
We’d love to hear what’s saved your sanity lately — tag us on Instagram @bigsisterhomecare or email hello@bigsistercare.com to share your tips. We may even include them in our next blog!
You are not just surviving — you’re growing stronger every day.
The right tools don’t make the job easier — they make you more equipped.
And when you’re equipped, you’re unstoppable.
