Your rights as a carer

You are an unpaid carer if you look after, help, or support someone who wouldn’t be able to manage everyday life without your help.

Under the Care Act 2014 you can ask for a carer's assessment to assess your own needs.

Support at work

If you are managing a job alongside caregiving responsibilities, consider discussing your situation with your employer to explore the support they can provide. This could include:

• Flexible working hours
• Taking time off
• Adjusting your work arrangements

The Carers UK website has further information on accessing support in the workplace and your rights.

Carers Leave Act 2023

As of the 6 April 2024, the Carers Leave Act came into effect and means unpaid carers will have the right to up to a week of unpaid leave to help with their caring responsibilities. You can find out more about carer's leave on the ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) website.

Advocacy

The Carers UK website has self-advocacy tips, complaint letter templates, explanation of the legislation that is relevant to carers, along with a downloadable guide for carers called Being Heard.

More information

The Citizens advice website also provides information on a carers rights and how the laws protect carers.

The ACAS Helpline provides free and confidential advice on employment rights.

The advocacy people provide free and confidential support to make sure people have their say.