Support for family carers — what you're entitled to and where to get help
If you're caring for an elderly relative, you are entitled to support in your own right — not just as an extension of the person you're caring for. A carer's assessment, Carer's Allowance, and respite care are all available. This guide explains what you can access and how to ask for it.
What is a carer's assessment and how do you get one?
Every unpaid carer is entitled to a free carer's assessment from the local authority. It looks at the impact caring has on your life — your work, your health, your relationships — and what support could help. You don't have to be struggling to ask for one. Contact your local council's adult social care team and request a Carer's Assessment by name.
Carer's Allowance — are you entitled to it?
Carer's Allowance is £81.90 per week (figure for 2024–25 — [update annually]). You may qualify if you care for someone for at least 35 hours per week and they receive certain disability benefits (PIP daily living, Attendance Allowance, or DLA care component at the middle/highest rate). It is taxable and affects some other benefits — check your overall entitlement before claiming.
Respite care — giving yourself a break
Respite care provides temporary cover so family carers can rest, work, or take a holiday. Options include:
- Day centres — a few hours or a full day
- Short residential respite stays — typically one to four weeks
- Sitting services — a paid carer comes to the home
- Replacement live-in care for longer breaks
Some respite is funded by the local authority following a carer's assessment.
The emotional side of caring
Caring for a parent or partner is one of the hardest things you'll ever do. The grief you feel as someone you love changes — particularly with dementia — is real and unrelenting. Guilt, exhaustion, frustration, and resentment are normal. Asking for help isn't a failure; it's how families sustain care over the long term.
If you're struggling, the Carers UK helpline (0808 808 7777) is free and confidential.
When it's time to consider professional care
There's no shame in reaching the point where home care or a move into residential care is the right answer. The signs are usually obvious in hindsight — falls, missed medication, your own health declining, sleeplessness. Read our care options guide to compare what's available, or use our free matching service to find verified providers near you.
Useful organisations for carers
- Carers UK — national helpline and online community
- Carers Trust — local network of carer support services
- Age UK — wide-ranging information and local services
- Alzheimer's Society — dementia-specific carer support
- Dementia UK — Admiral Nurses for families affected by dementia