Under the Carers and Disabled Children Act 2000, carers aged 16 or over who provide a regular and substantial amount of care for someone aged 18 or over have the right to an assessment of their needs as a carer
What is a carer's assessment?
A carer’s assessment will look at the help they give at the moment and also at what help may be given in the future. The carer will be asked their opinion as to what will make caring easier. This assessment will take into account the way people live and things such as religion and culture.
Even if the person who is cared for does not get help from the council, a carer still has a right to an assessment.
Who qualifies for an assessment?
To qualify for an assessment the carer must be providing 12 or more hours of care a week and the person cared for:
- is in receipt of Attendance Allowance or Disability Living Allowance care component middle or high rate if they have a physical disability or are over 65; or
- has a learning disability or mental health illness
- and has a level of social care needs that are lesser substantial, greater substantial or critical.
A Carers Policy has been introduced that explains which carers have a right to a carers assessment.
What help is available?
The council provides information about local and national carer’s support groups. It can also provide information on how carers can look after themselves.
More practical help may also be available with things like household tasks or caring tasks. This help will be subject to the eligibility criteria the council has for deciding whether or not we can offer help.
Advice may be given about benefits and allowances and also about breaks for carers.
If the carer is under 18 the council will also look at needs such as education and time for activities and outings.
Further information
Contact the Adult Care Team for further information about a carer’s assessment?