How to get an adult carer's assessment in Northamptonshire

Step by step

1. Check that you count as a carer

   You are a carer if you give unpaid support to a family member or friend who could not manage without you, because of disability, illness, a mental health condition or older age. You do not have to live with them, and you can ask for an assessment even if the person you care for gets no help from the council and has not been assessed themselves.

2. Understand what the assessment is

   Under the Care Act 2014 you have a legal right to a carer's assessment in your own right. It is a conversation, not a test, about how caring affects your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing, your work, study and family life, and what would help you keep caring safely if that is what you want to do.

3. Contact Northamptonshire Carers to request it

   Both North and West Northamptonshire Councils have asked Northamptonshire Carers to carry out carers' assessments on their behalf. Call the Carers Support Line on 01933 677907 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or fill in the online referral form on the Northamptonshire Carers website. You can also be referred by a GP, hospital or social worker.

4. Prepare for your assessment

   Before the assessment, jot down what you do in a typical day and week, anything you struggle with, how caring affects your health, sleep, work and relationships, and what you would like to be able to do (for example keep a job, get a regular break, or plan for emergencies). Being honest about the hard parts helps you get the right support.

5. Have the assessment and agree a support plan

   The assessment can be by phone, online or in person. Afterwards you will be told whether your needs are eligible for support. Outcomes can include information and advice, support groups, help to stay in work or education, a break from caring (replacement care), an emergency or crisis plan, and in some cases a direct payment to support your caring role.

6. Ask about a review and back-up advice

   Your needs can change, so ask how to request a review if things get harder. For advice on your rights and carer benefits such as Carer's Allowance, you can also contact the national charity Carers UK alongside your local support.