Carers’ Rights Day (21 November) is a national campaign that aims to raise awareness of what rights carers have and signpost to information and guidance.
It is estimated that there are at least 124,000 unpaid carers in Essex, however this number could be far greater.
Unpaid carers look after, help or support someone who wouldn’t be able to manage everyday life without their help. This may be as little as ten hours a week or more than 50.
This Carers’ Rights Day, the council wants to reach all carers, but especially those who don’t identify as carers.
Carers in the UK have the right to:
• access a local information and advice service
• be consulted on services for them and the person they are caring for
• access support if they have eligible needs
• their wellbeing being at the forefront when local authorities are making decisions about them or planning services
• be protected against direct discrimination or harassment because of their caring responsibilities
• a carer’s assessment
• the person they care for is also entitled to a needs assessment
Children and young people aged under 18 who are providing care also have the right to be assessed for care and support
Carers also have rights at work including:
• the right not to be discriminated against
• the right to request flexible working
• the right to time off to care for dependants
• the right to up to five working days of unpaid carer’s leave (new for 2024)
Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care and Integration, Councillor John Spence said:
“Unpaid carers play an incalculable role in ensuring wellbeing and comfort for those they love. Many see it as their responsibility to support their loved ones, friends and neighbours but don’t always realise there is information, guidance and support available for them, and laws that protect them.
“We are committed to helping carers to care, so it is critical that they have a full understanding of their rights.”
Watch Councillor Spence talk more about unpaid carers and their rights.
The council has also produced a series of information videos .
To find out more how carers are supported in Essex visit www.essex.gov.uk/carers