Carers' Legislation

Surrey Heath Carers Support

In April 1996 the 'Carers Recognition & Services Act' entitled carers to request an assessment in their own right when the person they care for has an assessment.

In July 2004 the 'Carers & Disabled Children's Act' was passed to support carers and maintain their health and well being. Parent carers or carers with parental responsibility for a disabled child also have the right to have an assessment of their needs.

In April 2005 the 'Carers & Equal Opportunities Act' became law to ensure carers are able to enjoy the same opportunities which people without caring responsibilities take for granted, and builds on existing carers legislation and government support for carers.

	you can now ask your local authority for an assessment of your own needs
	local authorities are now able to provide carers with services in their own right
	carers can now receive vouchers for short term breaks
	carers can now receive direct payments for their own services
	the Act also enables local authorities to charge carers for services provided directly to them
	the Act excludes parent carers and young carers from having an enhanced right to an assessment and to the services provided under the Bill

You can get information about the above at :

http://www.parliament.the-stationery-office.co.uk/pa/ld199900/ldbills/062/2000062.htm

If you have any queries about carers assessments, or any other aspect of your caring situation, ring the support office on 01276 27390 and talk to Judith or Anne, the carers support workers.