A carer is someone who looks after a relative, friend or neighbour who needs support because of their age, a physical disability, a learning disability, a physical illness, mental illness, substance misuse problem or limiting illness.
Adult Services
(if you are aged 18+ and looking after someone who is aged 18+)
The Department of Adult Services provides a range of support for carers, including:
There are also a number of local organisations which offer advocacy and support for carers.
How to apply for services
If you are caring for someone who already receives community care services from the council, then the social worker will also arrange for an assessment of your needs.
If the person you are caring for is not known to the council and isn't currently receiving services, contact the Central Duty Team to request an assessment of their needs and of your needs as a carer.
Once a referral is made, we will do an assessment to decide whether or not you (and the person you care for) are eligible to receive services. We use Department of Health guidance 'Fair Access to Care Services' to work out eligibility.
For further information, contact the carers support team, or download and complete the carers self assessment and grant form (.pdf, 226kb)
Children and Young Peoples Services
(including parent carers who look after a child or a young person under 18, and young carers)
Young carers workers provide support to children and young people caring for a relative, through support groups and befriending. They also visit schools and colleges to talk to pupils and teachers about the needs of young carers. Contact them direct for further information advice.
If you are a young carer, or a parent carer of a child or young person under 18, make a referral through the Children in Need Duty Team.
Useful links
