Caring can be tough, and lots of people don’t like to ask for help. If you’re finding caring difficult, a little extra help could make a world of difference.
What help can I get from social services?
As well as assessing the needs of the person you care for, your local council’s social services department should also give you a carer’s assessment to see what you need and what might help you with your caring role.
You’re entitled to a carer’s assessment if you regularly provide a substantial amount of care for someone. You can also get a carer’s assessment regardless of whether the person you care for is having their needs assessed.
The kind of help and support you could get includes:
- respite care to give you a break
- information on local carers support groups
- help with caring
- equipment to help you in your caring role.
You may also be entitled to a personal budget depending on the support needs identified in your assessment. A personal budget is the amount of money that the council has calculated will cover those needs.
How do I arrange a carer’s assessment and what will happen?
Step one
Contact your local social services department to request a carer’s assessment.Contact your local council
You just need your postcode to find your local council
Step two
Before you have an assessment, think about the following questions and whether being a carer is having a significant impact on these or other things in your life.- Are you getting enough sleep?
- Can you get out and do things by yourself?
- Are you eating well?
- Is your health being affected by caring?
- Can you cope with other family commitments?
- Is juggling work and caring difficult?
- Are you able to pursue your work or educational goals?
- Can you socialise and enjoy your hobbies in the way that you used to?
- Are there any other issues that may affect your ability to continue caring?