The person you care for is entitled to an assessment from the local authority social care department (or social work department in Scotland) to determine their need for services. If you ask them to do so, social care must also assess your support needs as a carer and look at your continuing ability to provide care (see Chapter 38(3) and Boxes J.4 and J.5 ). Contact your social care department for information about short breaks and other practical help.

There might be a local carers’ support group where you can share information with other carers. Contact Carers UK for details (0808 808 7777; www.carersuk.org ).