Carer's Assessments

Do I qualify for a carer's assessment?

The law says you have a right to an assessment if you look after a friend or relative who cannot manage without your help.

If you are aged over 16, your right to an assessment is not affected even if the person you care for does not want to receive help from social services.

You also have a right to an assessment if you intend to look after someone. This is important, for example, if your friend or relative is in hospital and you expect to look after them when they come back home.If you look after a disabled child you also have a right to an assessment. You do not necessarily have to be the child's mother or father, but have parental responsibility for the child.

Unfortunately, not all professionals are aware of carers' right to an assessment and some carers are wrongly told that they are not entitled to one. If this happens to you and you believe you are entitled to an assessment, you should put in writing your request and ask why they are refusing you an assessment. Contact Carers Northern Ireland for further information.

Read more in the following sections:.

Do I qualify for a carer's assessment?
What is the purpose of the assessment?
How do I get one?
Perparing for the assessment
Checklist
What happens at the assessment?
What happens afterwards?
What if I'm not satisfied?

This website has been developed and maintained with support from DHSSPS.