How to Register as a Carer

Becoming a carer is a profound expression of love and commitment, whether it’s for a family member, a friend, or someone in your community who needs support. In the UK, recognising yourself officially as a carer can seem daunting, but it's a vital step towards getting the support you and your loved one deserve. Here’s a simple guide on how to register as a carer for family member or for someone else, with organisations that can support you in this vital role.

Step 1: Understand Who Qualifies as a Carer

Firstly, it’s important to define what a carer is. In the UK, a carer is someone who provides regular and substantial care for a person who cannot manage daily tasks without this support due to illness, disability, a mental health problem, or an addiction. While some carers are professional care workers employed by a care home or agency, many carers support family members or friends on an unpaid basis.

Step 2: Apply for a Carer’s Assessment

Every carer is entitled to an assessment by their local council to see what support might be available. This is called a Carer’s Assessment. It’s not a test of your ability to care; rather, it’s about understanding your needs and how your caring responsibilities affect your life.

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During the assessment, you’ll discuss your caring role, what you’re managing well, and what could be improved. The assessment looks at practical aspects of caring, like time off and respite care, and broader issues, including your health and wellbeing.

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If you’ve been asking yourself, “how do I register as a carer with my local council”, head to your local council’s website and find the pages on Carer’s Assessment.

Step 3: Consider Applying for Carer’s Allowance

Carer’s Allowance is financial support from the UK government for carers who meet certain criteria. To be eligible, you need to be over 16, spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone who receives a qualifying disability benefit, and earn no more than £128 a week after deductions. 

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You can find out more about Carer’s Allowance and apply on the gov.uk website here.

Step 4: How do I register as a carer with my GP?

Another crucial step in your journey as a carer is to inform your GP about your caring responsibilities. Registering as a carer with your GP practice allows your healthcare provider to have a fuller picture of your health and circumstances. This is important because carers often neglect their own health while focusing on the needs of the person they care for. By making your GP aware of your situation, they can offer more tailored health advice and potentially provide access to additional support services. Your GP can also link you with local support groups, where you can connect with other carers. This connection is invaluable as it helps build a supportive network; sharing experiences and advice can be immensely beneficial in managing the emotional and physical demands of caring.

Step 5: Apply for a National Carers Card

Many unpaid carers frequently encounter situations where they need registered carer proof of status, helping to identify themselves as a carer to other members of the public or to staff at venues or while travelling. The National Carers Card is designed to be recognised nationwide and even abroad as proof of your carer status, and may entitle you to discounts and concessions at the discretion of the venue you’re visiting. It’s an easy-to carry way to quickly identify yourself to others and get the help you need for the person you care for. Apply for the National Carers Card here.