Navigating life as a young adult carer can be a lot. You’re balancing your own life, whether that’s work, college, or just trying to hang out with friends, while also providing essential support to a family member or friend. It’s a big responsibility, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to do it all alone. There’s support out there and knowing your rights and the help available is the first step.
Financial Support & Benefits
Money can be a big worry for carers. Here are some of the key benefits and schemes you might be eligible for.
- Carer’s Allowance: This is a benefit of £83.30 a week for people who spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone who receives certain disability benefits. You do not have to be related to, or live with, the person you care for, but you must be 16 or over, not in full time education, and not earn more than £196 or less a week after tax, National Insurance and expenses. It’s important to note that claiming Carer’s Allowance can affect the benefits of the person you care for, so it’s always a good idea to check with a benefits advisor or use a benefits calculator before you apply. You can find more information and apply on the GOV.UK website.
- National Insurance Credits: Even if you’re not eligible for Carer’s Allowance, you might be able to get National Insurance Credits. This is a credit that helps with gaps in your National Insurance record, so you can still build up your entitlement to the State Pension. If you can claim Carer’s Allowance, you will automatically receive National Insurance Credits. If you don’t, you may be eligible if you’re caring for someone for at least 20 hours a week or receiving income support. Check the GOV.UK website to find out more.
- Council Tax Reduction: If you are the person who is paying the council tax, you might be able to get a reduction. Contact your local council to see what’s available.
Help with Energy Costs
The rising cost of energy is a concern for many, and it can be particularly tough for carers. In West Sussex, there’s a specific service that can help.
- Energy for Carers Service: Carers Support West Sussex, in partnership with Citizens Advice, offers a service to help carers with energy advice and support. We can help with things like benefits checks, managing energy debt, and understanding energy-saving tips. We can also help you get on the Priority Services Register, which provides extra support from your energy network in case of a power cut, click here for more information.
- National Schemes: You might also be eligible for national schemes like the Warm Home Discount and Winter Fuel Payment, which can help with your energy bills. More information can be found here: www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme and www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment.
Your Rights as a Carer
Knowing your legal rights is important, especially when it comes to work or education.
- Right to a Carer’s Assessment: Under the Care Act 2014, the local council has a legal duty to assess your needs as a carer, even if the person you care for is not getting support from the council. This assessment is a chance to talk about the impact caring has on your life and to get a support plan. Carer’s Assessments are undertaken by Carers Support West Sussex on behalf of the local council. Contact us to find out more:
0300 028 8888 or info@carerssupport.org.uk. - Employment Rights: If you are also working, you have legal rights that can help you balance your job and caring responsibilities.
- Right to Request Flexible Working: You have the legal right to request two statutory flexible working requests in any 12-month period from your employer from day one of your job.
- Right to Carer’s Leave: You have the right to one week of unpaid carer’s leave each year to help with your caring responsibilities. This leave can be taken flexibly (in half or full days) for planned and foreseen caring commitments. This is a day-one right, which means you’re eligible as soon as you start your job.
- Protection from Discrimination: Under the Equality Act 2010, you are protected from being discriminated against because of your association with a disabled person. This applies in the workplace, as well as in other areas like education and when using services.
Local Support in West Sussex
Remember, you don’t have to navigate all this on your own. We are here to support you.
Carers Support West Sussex offer a range of services, including guidance, emotional support, and help with finances. We also run the “My Future” groups for young adult carers aged 16-21, offering a safe space to connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Visit our dedicated Young Adult Carer webpage for more information: www.carerssupport.org.uk/i-am-a-young-adult-carer/.
This information is intended to be a starting point. Your personal situation is unique, and it’s always best to seek personalised advice. Contacting us at Carers Support West Sussex, or Citizens Advice and other relevant organisations can help you get the specific support you need.
Take care,
The Young Adult Carers Team
