Carers Assessment

If you care for someone, you can have an assessment to see what might help make your life easier. This is called a carer's assessment. It might recommend things like:

· someone to take over caring so you can take a break

· gym membership and exercise classes to relieve stress

· help with taxi fares if you don't drive

· help with gardening and housework

· training on how to lift safely

· putting you in touch with local support groups so you have people to talk to

· advice about benefits for carers

A carer's assessment is free and anyone over 18 can ask for one.

It is separate from the needs assessment for the person you care for, but you can ask to have them both done at the same time.

Contact adult social services at your local council and ask for a carer's assessment.