CHOICE

Everyone has the right to choose to care. Only exception are parents caring for an under 18.

 ASSESSMENT

Any carer, of any age, is entitled to an assessment of their needs if they appear to provide substantial care   on a regular basis. You may be a carer living with or away from the person you care for, caring full  time or combining care with paid work – regardless you are still entitled to a carer’s assessment.

 RIGHTS TO INDIVIDUALITY

Local Authorities must offer a carer an assessment of their needs separate from the person they care for and even if the person being cared for refuses an assessment.

 EXPRESSION OF VIEWS

Carers have the right to have their views considered when deciding on the provision of services for a person with community care needs.

 RIGHT TO BE HEARD

Careers have the right to be involved in discussions and to have a choice prior to the discharge of a person from hospital.

SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS

Since April 2007 carers have the right to request flexible working arrangements to enable them to manage their caring role.

 REGISTER

GP’s must keep a register of carers in their practice and monitor their needs.

 INFORMATION

It is the duty of Local Authorities to provide up to date information to ALL carers, on ALL services and in a variety of accessible formats.

 GIVEN OPPORTUNITIES

As part of the assessment, carers can ask for services to enable them to remain in, or return to work or training. This may also include pursuing new leisure activities.

 HOLIDAYS / BREAKS

If assessed as eligible for a break, carers can request that this be provided by a direct payment. Which they can use for a holiday for the family.

 TIME OFF

A carer has the right to have time off from their job to sort out emergency care arrangements. Whether the time off is paid or not is at the discretion of the employer. An emergency could be:

·        A disruption or breakdown in care arrangements

·        The death of a dependent

·        If a dependent falls ill or has been assaulted

·        To make longer term arrangements for a dependent

 SERVICES