Adult carers

If you provide unpaid support for a relative, friend or neighbour who could not manage without your help then you are a carer.

You may be caring for someone because they are ill, frail, disabled, or have mental health or substance misuse problems.

Caring can include things like:

  • personal care, such as washing and dressing
  • practical care, such as cooking, housework and shopping
  • giving medication
  • emotional support, such as providing company.

Your legal rights

As a carer, you have a number of important legal rights. For example, depending on your circumstances, you may be entitled to:

  • have your views taken into account when the person you care for has a care assessment
  • have a carers assessment, if you provide ‘regular and substantial' care for someone
  • claim certain benefits, tax credits and other sources of financial support
  • ask for flexible working arrangements
  • take time off work if there is an emergency relating to the person you care for.