Am I a carer?

If you regularly look after another person, whether they live with you or not, who cannot manage without help because of illness, frailty, disability, mental health needs, learning difficulties or a long-term condition such as HIV, you are a carer.

As a carer you may be able to receive support from Social Services, even if the person you care for does not receive support or does not want to receive support from Social Services.

To find out what help is available you need to contact us and ask for a Carer's Assessment.

What happens in a Carer's Assessment?

If you care for an adult a Carer's Assessment can be done at the same time that the person you care for receives an assessment from Social Services, or it can be done separately, even if the person you care for is not being assessed.

During a Carer's Assessment, a social worker or care manager will ask you questions about your situation - what kind of support the person you care for needs, whether you are able to give the support they need and what help might improve your situation. You can talk to them about financial worries, your own health, if you need practical help in the home, your concern about future needs. The social worker will explain to you some of the different options available to help you carry on caring with adequate support, and help you access them.

Do I have to pay for a Carer's Assessment?

You do not have to pay for your assessment, or for advice or information, but you may have to pay for other services we provide. To find out more about paying for services read our Care Charges web pages.