Skip links

Opening Hours: Mon 9am-4pm | Tues 9am-4pm | Wed 9am-7pm | Thurs 9am-4pm | Fri 9am-4pm | Sat 10am-12pm|

Register as a Carer
Donate
Events
Click to Search

Register

Donate

Help

Your rights as an unpaid carer

Becoming a carer to a friend or family member is something that can happen overnight. Even if a gradual process, most carers are not aware of the rights bestowed on them once the carer status becomes applicable.


Illustration showing group of people of all ages and situations

The right to ask your GP practice to identify you as a carer

Why should you tell your GP that you are a carer?

Caring can take its toll on an individual’s health and wellbeing, and it is important to tell your GP so that they can support your health needs and work with you to address the health needs of the person you care for.

Learn more

Requesting a carer’s assessment

If you’re over 18 and provide regular unpaid care for someone, you’re entitled to a carer’s assessment - it doesn’t matter how much or what sort of care you provide.

Learn more

Being consulted when the person you care for is discharged from hospital

The Health and Care Act 2022 means that NHS hospital Trusts in England have a duty to ensure that unpaid carers are involved as soon as feasible when plans for the patient’s discharge are being made. This applies to all carers of adults needing care and support following hospital discharge.

Learn more

The right (and choice) to request a free flu jab

If you are a carer, you may be eligible for the flu vaccine if you are the main carer of someone who is elderly or disabled and who would be at risk if you got sick, or you receive a carer’s allowance.

Learn more

The right to unpaid leave from your employment

The Carer’s Leave Act 2023 came into effect on the 6th of April 2024. This piece of legislation allows employees to take one week’s (a week is defined by your contract with your employer) unpaid leave per year.

Learn more

The right to request flexible working

The flexible working Act 2023 gives employees the right to ask their employer for flexible working from day one of employment. Flexibility in working hours could help balance work and caring.

Learn more

Protection against discrimination or harassment

The Equality Act 2010 is a law aimed at stopping discrimination and helping to encourage equality. This legislation protects you against direct discrimination or harassment because of your caring responsibilities.

Learn more