Legislations

• Carers and their needs have now been recognised by the law (Carers recognition and services act 1995) through legislations relating to a Carers right for an assessment of their support needs (Carers & Disabled Children Act 2000) and their right to access employment, study or leisure opportunities (The Carers Equal Opportunities Act 2004) and their right to have flexible working hours (The Employment Act 2002). Further details can be accessed through Direct Gov Caring For Someone

Emergency Services

• Harrow Council provide a Carers Emergency Support Service which enables carers to plan ahead to ensure support is provided for the person they care for, if the carer has an emergency, giving carers the peace of mind. Details of the service and registration form are available on Carers Emergency Support Services

Self-Directed Support

• Self Directed Support is a new way of working and gives people and their carers more control, choice and flexibility over how they plan and manage their social care support. If you qualify for social care services then you can gain support in this way. For more detail please refer to Self Directed Support

Carers Assessment

• As a carer you are entitled to an assessment of your needs in the context of your caring role. This is known as a Carers Assessment. It will focus on your health (physical and mental), financial and respite needs as well as your desire to pursue work, study, social or leisure activities. Further details on this are available on Carers Needs Assessment