Carers' Rights - what you need to know
Caring can be challenging, but you have important rights to help protect and support you.
At Work
- Carer's Leave - from day one in your job, you can take up to one week of unpaid leave per year to care for someone.
- Flexible Working - you can request flexible working hours or arrangements. See guidance on GOV.UK
- Protection from Discrimination - under the Equality Act 2010, you cannot be treated unfairly because you care for someone with a disability or who is protected by law.
- Time Off for Emergencies - you can take time off to deal with unexpected situations involving dependants. Details on GOV.UK
Social Care & Support
- Carer's Assessment - you have the right to ask your local council for an assessment to see what support you might need.
- Support Plan - if you meet eligibility, the council may offer practical or emotional support. Contact your local Council
- Financial Help - you may be able to claim Carer's Allowance or other benefits if you're on a low income or not working. Check eligibility on GOV.UK
Where to Get Help
- Carers UK - advice, helpline and resources on all aspects of caring.
- Carers Trust - support networks and information. Carers Trust | Transforming the lives of carers
- Your Local Council - to arrange a Carer's Assessment. Carer's assessments - Suffolk County Council and Get a carer's assessment - What a carer's assessment is - Norfolk County Council
- GOV.UK - official information on work and caring rights.