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Support for carers

Sense is here for you

We support people with complex disabilities of all ages and their carers. Get in touch with our team to find out how we could support you.

If you’re responsible for supporting someone who is disabled, you are a carer even if you don’t think of yourself as one.

As a carer, you have rights and it’s important to know what practical, emotional and financial help is available.

This section gives you a brief overview of what support is available with useful links to find out more information.

Find out more about what it means to be a carer, what benefits you can apply for and how to get more support at work and in the community.

Information and advice for carers

What is a carer?

Being a carer looks different for everyone. A carer is someone who supports someone who can’t carry out everyday tasks by themselves.

a man is kneeling next to a woman in a wheelchair on the pavement

What benefits can you claim if you’re a carer?

If you care for a disabled person, you might be entitled to help with your living costs.

A woman wearing a purple hijab and glasses reads a book with two small children.

Carers’ assessments

Carers’ assessments are your local authority’s way of finding out what support you need as a carer.

A woman and a young man in a wheelchair sharing a laugh in a garden.

Respite care (short breaks for carers)

Respite care – sometimes called “short breaks” – is a term used to describe opportunities to take a break from caring.

Practical and emotional support for carers

Caring for a loved one who has complex disabilities can take its toll on you over time. It’s so important to look after your own wellbeing, for their sake as well as your own.

Raji, an Asian woman, hugs another person whose back is to the camera.

Carers’ rights at work

This page explains carers’ rights in the workplace, including your right to time off in an emergency and protection against discrimination.

When caring ends

Find out more about what support is available when your caring role comes to an end.

Two women holding hands

What happens when you stop being a carer?

Whatever your circumstances, this can be a time of difficult and mixed emotions. This page will offer some of the essential information you’ll need about practical steps to take when your caring role ends.

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We’re here for everyone living with complex disabilities and their carers.

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This content was last reviewed in April 2022. We’ll review it again next year.