Carers Rights Day is an annual event that raises awareness of the rights of unpaid carers. Being an unpaid carer can be challenging, but knowing your rights can make a significant difference in taking better control of your situation. This year’s theme is ‘Know your right, use your rights’ and as such we want to connect and empower you with information so access the support you’re entitled to and deserve.
What rights do caregivers have?
Right to an Assessment
You have the right to request a Carer’s Assessment from your local authority. This Assessment looks at your needs as a caregiver and the support you require.
How to use it: In Gateshead you would need to contact Adult Social Care to request an Assessment. Once you have made your request, the Assessment will be processed and then carried out by a member of staff from Caregivers Connected Gateshead.
The person you care for also has the right to request a Care Assessment; this can help determine what support services they can access.
Right to request Flexible Working hours
As a caregiver, you have the right to request flexible working arrangements from your employer. This could include changes to your working hours, location or pattern. While your employer must consider your request, they can also decline the request if there is a valid business reason.
How to use it: Make a formal flexible working request to your employer. Explain how the changes will help you balance work and care responsibilities. Be prepared to discuss alternative solutions if your initial request if not feasible. You can learn more about applying for flexible working on the Gov.UK website.
Financial Support
If you providing over 35 hours of care per week, you may be entitled to receive Carer’s Allowance. Caregivers also have a right to claim other state benefits if they meet certain eligibility criteria, this could include Universal Credit or Pension credit.
How to use it: Check your eligibility for Carer’s Allowance and other benefits on the Gov.UK website. Caregivers in Gateshead can also contact us and we will provide a free benefits check and support with applications.
The right to have unpaid Carer’s Leave from work
Caregivers who are juggling caring responsibilities and work have a legal right to take up to five days unpaid leave per annum. This is thanks to the implementation of the Carer’s Leave Act in 2024, helping caregivers to stay in employment.
How to use it: There are many reasons why you may need to use Carer’s Leave such as to accompany the person you care for to a hospital appointment, set up new care arrangements or providing care during a sudden urgent need. Notify your employer that you will want to use your Carer’s Leave to take time off, under the Carer’s Leave Act 2024 your employer must consider your request cannot refuse your request, they can however ask the employee to take it at a different time if their absence would cause serious disruption to the organisation. Learn more about Carer’s Leave on the Gov.UK website.
In summary
Understanding your rights as an unpaid carer is crucial for accessing the support and resources you need. Carers Rights Day 2025 is a great reminder to review your entitlements and take steps to ensure you are receiving the help you deserve. By being informed and proactive, you can better manage your caring responsibilities and improve your own wellbeing.