Website of the UK government

It does not mean a professional care-worker in a nursing home, for example - or someone employed by a disabled person.

If you are a carer, you may also be entitled to help and support. This section contains some ideas about where to get advice - and includes information about financial support you may receive.

Social services

Your local social services department may be able to make things easier for you and the person you care for. They may offer help such as home help (like cleaning) or short-term breaks for you as a carer.

To find out what services could benefit you, social services need to discuss with you:

This is called a carer's assessment.

• Assessments for carers

Who pays for care?

You may be able to get some services provided to you in your caring role free of charge. You may be asked to pay some money towards other services. You will not be charged for services provided to the person you care for.

• Who pays for care?

Young carers

If you are under 18 and care for someone, it is important that you get help and support. You should not have the caring responsibilities that an adult could take on and there are people and services available to help you.

• Young carers

Caring for a disabled child

If you care for a disabled child, your needs will be considered in the family's needs assessment, through the social services department of you local council.

You can contact the council directly, or you can ask your doctor (GP) to contact them on your behalf.

• Caring for a disabled child
• Local councils

Your rights as a carer

As a carer, you have certain rights by law. This is laid out in the Carers (Equal Opportunities) Act.

• The Carers (Equal Opportunities) Act