Are you a Carer?
May 27th, 2025
Recognising your role as a carer and the support that you’re entitled to
Many people provide unpaid care without realising they are carers. If you look after a friend, partner, neighbour or family member who cannot manage without your support due to illness, disability, mental health needs, addiction or age-related issues – you are a carer.
Recognising your role is the first step to accessing help. Too often, carers go without support because they don’t identify as one. Being a carer can be rewarding, but it can also impact your health, finances, education, and employment. That’s why knowing your rights and entitlements is so important.
Financial Support for carers
Carer’s Allowance is the main benefit available for unpaid carers. If you care for someone
at least 35 hours a week and they receive certain disability benefits, you may be eligible. The
current weekly rate (as of 2025) is £81.90, though it may affect other benefits you or the
person you care for receive.
Other financial support includes:
Carer Premiums: These may be added to other benefits such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit.
Council Tax Reductions: In some cases, carers may be eligible for discounts.
Grants or emergency funds: Some charities or local authorities offer one-off payments.
Employment Rights for carers
You have the legal right to request flexible working from day one of employment. This might include adjusted hours, job sharing or remote working.
From April 2024, the government introduced Carer’s Leave, giving employees up to 5 days of unpaid leave per year to deal with caring responsibilities. This can be taken flexibly and helps manage emergencies or attend medical appointments.
Local Support for carers
Your local authority must offer you a Carer’s Assessment, which looks at how your caring role affects your life and what support you need. This could include practical help, respite, advice services or emotional support.
At Carers Centre Tower Hamlets, we can help you navigate these entitlements, connect with others, and find tailored services to support your wellbeing.
You are not alone. Identifying as a carer opens the door to understanding, support,
and practical help.
Contact us today to see how we can support you.
