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Caring for a loved one can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Carer support services offer vital assistance and guidance to those providing care to their elderly family members. Navigating the various support options available can be tricky, but our guides aim to simplify the process, ensuring that you have access to the finances, resources and information you need to support both yourself and your loved one.
This guide is not a substitute for expert advice – always seek professional help.
Navigating the myriad of support available to caregivers can be daunting. Our guides provide an overview of different support options
Read our GuidesFind answers to common questions about carer support services, funding options, eligibility criteria, and more in our FAQs section.
Read our FAQsYour go-to resource for understanding the terminology used in care services.
Read our GuideExplore common concerns about support for carers.
You are a carer if you look after someone regularly because they’re ill, ageing or disabled but you are not paid to do so.
Anyone can be a carer – including friends, relatives, spouses, parents – you don’t need to live with the person you are caring for and you do not need to provide full time care.
There are some key legal frameworks which ensure carers get the support and opportunities they deserve. These include the Equality Act (2010), the Care Act (2014) and the Carers Leave Act (2024).
The Care Act (2014) requires Local Authorities to assess a carer’s needs for support, if the carer appears to be in need. The assessment explores what the carers needs are in relation to caring and its impact on their life including their ability and desire to provide care, undertake study or undertake paid work. After the assessment, the Local Authority will determine whether the carer’s needs meet their “eligibility criteria” for support.
Young carers are under the age of 18 years and are supported by different laws including those relating to children. The Children and Families Act ensures young carers have similar rights to assessment as other carers have under the Care Act.
The language of care can be difficult to understand and follow. Sometimes, experts use so many different acronyms and technical terms that it can seem like they are speaking a completely different language. All this complicated care talk can make it hard to understand what’s going on and what you can do to help. Try using this expert jargon buster to decipher what is going on!
Read our guide
