A Family Carer is someone of any age whose life is
restricted because they are looking after another person who cannot
manage without help because of illness, age related frailty, mental
health need or disability. Family Carers are not paid and do not
always live with the person that they care for. They may be caring
for a friend, neighbour or relative.
All family carers have the right to have their views taken into
account when the person that they care for is having their needs
assessed. Many family carers have additional rights and they are
entitled to have a separate family carer assessment that takes
account of their own needs and wishes.
There are three main pieces of legislation that relate to Family
Carers;
Detailed information relating to these Act's can be
found at:
Suffolk County Council has a duty to inform Family Carers
of their Rights to an assessment of need. A Carers Assessment will
look at many aspects of your life including your health, support
that you have through family and friends and how caring affects
your personal and social relationships. It must also consider your
opportunity for work, education, training or leisure activity.
If you have not already been offered an assessment of need as a
Family Carer, then you should request one to be completed by the
Social Worker or the practitioner who works with the person you
care for. You can also contact
Customer First.