I’ve been unsure about claiming this if it’s still in place this year because of some kind of guilt during COVID-19 & the state of our country’s finances on the news, also a part of me not looking into it was how difficult the person who came to assess me last year and how reluctant the local government was in releasing any funds to me. Does anyone have any suggestions/advice please??
Two entirely different organisations deal with Carers issues.
DWP deal with things like Carer Allowance, Carers Premiums etc. for you, and disability benefits for your caree.
The Local Authority, Social Services, deal with Carers Assessments to see what help they can give you to support your caring role.
They are the ones who should do Needs Assessments.
For detailed information, contact our Carers UK helpline, but in the mean time, here is my “rough guide”.
Are you now claiming Carers Allowance?
As I understand it, if you are entitled to Carers Allowance, but already claiming other “income related benefits” then you can get a Carers Premium.
You can only have Carers Allowance if your caree is already claiming Disability LIving Allowance or Personal Independence Payment, or Attendance Allowance.
Even then, there are also other qualification hurdles to overcome.
Has your caree had a Needs Assessment from Social Services, and you, a Carers Assessment from them, in the last 12 months?
So the last time I had a assessment was some time in April 2019 and as I remember the name was different and that’s why I was confused… so what you’re saying is that I need to apply for a needs assessment and what I’ve just briefly read is that part of the local social services department who offers support, thank you 
Happy to help. I’ve been a carer for 41 years, the system should be much easier to navigate.
Hello Ray
Here are the details you need to contact our helpline -
0808 808 7777 from Monday to Friday, 9am – 6pm or email advice@carersuk.org They’ll be able to advise you on what you’re entitled to.
It might be useful to check through our help and advice pages too -
Best wishes
Jane