Carers' rights and support

Carer's assessment

Every carer has the right to a free carer's assessment from the council of the person they care for. It looks at how caring affects you, and what could help, such as:

• breaks from caring (respite)
• help with housework or gardening
• training, such as moving and handling
• support to stay in work or education
• a carer's personal budget in some areas

Carer's leave

If you work, you have the legal right to 1 week of unpaid carer's leave every 12 months to care for a dependant with a long-term care need. You can take it in half days or whole days, and you can use it from your first day in a job.

Flexible working

All employees have the right to ask for flexible working from their first day in a job, such as changes to hours, working from home or job sharing. Your employer must consider it properly.

Protection from discrimination

The Equality Act 2010 protects you from being treated unfairly at work because of your association with a disabled person.

Looking after yourself

• Tell your GP you are a carer.
• Carers can get a free flu vaccine.
• Make an emergency plan in case you cannot care. Some councils run carers' emergency card schemes.
• Talk to other carers through Carers UK, Carers Trust or a local carers' centre.

Young carers

If you are under 18 and help look after someone, you are a young carer. You have the right to a young carer's needs assessment, and many areas have young carers' groups. Tell your school, as they can support you.