Carer’s assessments in England: What are they and how do you get one?

3 mins read

Friday 7 May 2021

Tags: carer's assessments, social care

Find out at our special Q&A session on carer’s assessments in our closed Facebook Group!

Many disabled children and their families rely on support from social care, such as short breaks, personal care and help in the home. All parent carers in England have the right to ask for a carer’s assessment – a review of your needs.  

A carer’s assessment gives you a chance to tell social services about the things that could make looking after your child easier for you. They give you the opportunity to discuss issues like the help you need, whether there is anyone else who helps, or if you are your child’s only carer. They can help you get the services or direct payments  you  need. 

Many families we talk to are unaware of these rights, and this can lead to missing out and struggling without support. 

Join our Facebook Q&A on 12 May

To help, we are running a special Facebook Q&A over in our closed (private) Facebook group. You can ask our helpline advisers about any issues around carer’s assessments, including how to go about getting one.

To take part, you’ll need to join over 4,500 other parent carers and become a member of our closed (private) Facebook Group. The group is a safe space for you to discuss your concerns and share your tips about family life in lockdown. 

Joining our Facebook Group is easy. Just answer a few simple questions to register, and you’re in! Join us there on Wednesday 12 May from 10am-12noon when our team of education advisers will be waiting to answer your questions. Put the date in your diary!

Find out:

  • How to ask for an assessment of your family’s needs, so you can access help.
  • What services may be provided, which maybe provided in your caring role and help with wellbeing. 

Can’t make 12 May?

Visit our webpage on carer’s assessments, or if you prefer you can download our factsheet on carer’s assessments [PDF].

You can also read more about social care services, or download our comprehensive guide to services and support from your local authority [PDF]. You’ll find information about all the support you and your child may be entitled to from social services in England.

Once our session’s finished, you’ll be able to read through all the answers at a time that suits you.