However old you are, if care for someone for a substantial amount of time, on a regular basis, you may be entitled to help. Contact your local social work or social services department or a carers’ charity (under useful links, right) for advice and information.
Social services will arrange for you to have an assessment. You can be assessed independently from the person you care for, even if they don’t want help from social services, if necessary - but if possible, talk to the person you look after before you contact social services and agree the points you want to raise together.
Make a list, or keep a diary, of everything you do to look after the person you care for. There is a helpful checklist on the Carers Uk website. Carers UK also has a free adviceline for carers on 0808 808 7777
An outline of the other assessments carers may find helpful is available on the Princess Royal Trust for Carers’ website.
