As a carer you have a legal right to a carers assessment under the Carer’s (Recognition of Services) Act 1995.  This act requires your local authority to identify and support your needs as a carer.

The assessment will help you to discuss the help you need even if the person you care for refuses help.  For instance, you could tell services about the things that could make caring easier for you.

It might help you think about services such as: 

• Respite and breaks
• Emotional support from other carers and people who understand
• Help with household chores
• Help with caring tasks during the day or night
• Benefits advice
• Activities for the person you care for

The assessment is about the recognition of carers and the role you provide.  It’s not a test of what you do for the person you care for, rather, it is an opportunity to say what would help you in your caring role.

If you would like an assessment, or more information, please contact the care coordinator of the person you care for, your GP (who can make a referral for an assessment) or the local mental health services or social services department.