Carer's Assessment Information
What Is a Carer’s Assessment?
A carer’s assessment is an opportunity to discuss how caring affects your life and identify what support may help you maintain your wellbeing. The assessment focuses on your needs as a carer rather than the needs of the person you care for.
A Carer’s Assessment is available to anyone aged 18 or over who provides regular unpaid care or support to a family member, partner, friend or neighbour who could not manage without their help due to illness, disability, frailty, mental health needs or substance misuse. You do not need to live with the person you care for, provide care full-time, or receive Carer’s Allowance to qualify.
What Will Be Discussed?
The assessment focuses on your own wellbeing and the impact that caring has on your daily life. This may include:
- Your caring responsibilities
- Physical and emotional wellbeing
- Work, education, or training
- Family relationships
- Social activities and hobbies
- Future plans and aspirations
Following the assessment, you may be offered practical support, information, advice, respite opportunities or services
What Support Might Be Available?
Depending on your circumstances, support offered following an assessment could include:
- Information and advice
- Respite opportunities
- Practical support services
- Emotional wellbeing support
- Access to community services
- Financial guidance
Why Request an Assessment?
Many carers are unaware of the support available to them. A carer’s assessment helps ensure your needs are recognised and considered when planning support that might be needed to help you continue caring while maintaining your own health and wellbeing.
Think you may be eligible?
If you provide unpaid care for someone and would like to discuss your situation, contact your local Adult Social Care team or carers support organisation to request a free Carer’s Assessment. You have a legal right to an assessment, regardless of how many hours of care you provide or whether the person you care for receives support services themselves.