What support can I get as a carer?

Many people who provide unpaid care are unaware of their rights. Find out more about the help and support you are entitled to.
a woman with her daughter reading a book

If you provide unpaid care for a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, or another problem, cannot cope without support, you may be entitled to help.

To help you access financial and practical support, we share three steps Carers UK suggests you can take.

1. Get a benefits check

Get a full benefits check to see what financial support you may be entitled to. The Carer's Allowance is the primary carer's benefit, but this could also include tax credits, council tax discounts or help with fuel costs.

You can get a personalised benefits check online. It will take about 20 minutes to complete.

Go to the benefits calculator

2. Find out about practical support

Caring for a loved one can be very physically and mentally demanding, so finding out from your local council what practical support is available is crucial. This support could include equipment to make caring easier or information about local support groups that can help.

All carers are entitled to a carer's assessment from their local council. This could result in the carer, or the person they are caring for, being able to get additional help or support.

Contact adult social services at your local council and ask for a carer's assessment to find out more.

Find my local council

3. Connect with others

Caring can be very isolating, but you can connect with people in similar situations in many different ways. You can find local support groups to attend in person or benefit from the wealth of online forums.

To learn more about your rights, tailored to your situation, take a look at Upfront - Carers UK's online tool, or check out their online meetups if you fancy a cup of tea and chat. 

Join a meeting

 

Further information for carers

Carers UK have a wide range of support, including:

Carers UK also offers a directory of support to help you find local carer organisations and a source of support near your home.

Find out more