Support and benefits for Carers: What support can I get? 

Caring for a loved one with SEND needs is a rewarding role, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. 

Many people providing this vital support do not realize they are entitled to financial help and miss out on millions in advocacy and support services. 

We have seen firsthand the incredible work and sacrifice that goes into taking care of a family member. At halow, we want to ensure every carer feels seen, valued, and supported. 

Here is a guide to the primary avenues of support available to you.

1. The Carer’s Allowance

The main financial benefit specifically for carers is the Carer’s Allowance.

Eligibility:

• Aged 16 or over. 
• you’ve been in England, Scotland or Wales for at least 2 of the last 3 years (this does not apply if you’re a refugee or have humanitarian protection status). 
• you’re not in full-time education
• you’re not studying for 21 hours a week or more
• you’re not subject to immigration control
• your earnings are £204 or less a week after tax, National Insurance and expenses
• You may be eligible if you spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone who receives a qualifying disability benefit (such as PIP or DLA).
• Carer’s Allowance if you share the care of someone and the other carer is NOT already claiming. 

Important Note: You could get £86.45 a week and do not have to be related to, or live with, the person you care for. However, you do not get paid extra if you care for more than one person. 

For more information on Carer’s Allowance please visit: Carer's Allowance: How it works - GOV.UK

2. Carer’s Element of Universal Credit

If a carer meets the eligibility requirements for Carer’s allowance, you may be able to claim additional support with Universal Credit called the Carer Element. 

The eligibility threshold for the Carer Element are the same as for Carer's Allowance except that there isn’t an earnings threshold.

This benefit offers up to £201.68 a month to those who meet the eligibility criteria. Although, Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit, the Carers Element remains available to those who meet the necessary care requirements, regardless of earnings.

For more information on Carer’s Element of Universal Credit please visit: Universal Credit: What Universal Credit is - GOV.UK

3. The Carer’s Assessment

A Carer’s Assessment is carried out by your local council to identify how your caring role affects your life and what could make things easier for you. It looks at:

• Your physical and mental health.
• Your desire to work or study.
• Your need for a social life or "leisure time." 

As a result of the assessment, the council may provide support directly to you, such as help with housework, training (e.g. how to lift safely), taxi fares, or even a grant to help you take up a hobby.

4. Respite Care

For many parents and carer’s respite care is essential for long-term wellbeing. It lets individuals take ‘breaks’ while the person they look after is being cared for. 

This can take many forms:

• Short breaks: Where the person you care for attends a day session or community activity (like those offered here at halow).
• Sitting services: Where someone comes to your home for a few hours so you can go out or take a break
• Residential respite: A short-term stay in a care setting for your loved one.

Councils may pay for respite care following a needs assessment and/or carer’s assessment. 

To find out more about Respite care please visit: Carers' breaks and respite care - Social care and support guide - NHS 

5. The Carer’s Credit

If you have had to give up work or reduce your hours to care for someone, you might be worried about your future State Pension. Carer’s Credit is a National Insurance credit that helps fill gaps in your record, ensuring your pension isn't negatively impacted by your time spent caring.

Eligibility:

• aged 16 or over
• under State Pension age
• Caring for someone 20hrs or more a week 
• Person you are looking after must receive a qualifying disability benefit (such as PIP or DLA).  

Important note: Your income, savings or investments will not affect eligibility for Carer’s Credit.

For more information on Carer’s Credit please visit: Carer's Credit: Overview - GOV.UK

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Need more help? Contact the us at Referrals@halowproject.org.uk

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