Parent carers

You look after your child. Your needs matter too.

When your child has a disability, additional needs or a long-term condition, family life can involve extra appointments, paperwork and worry. You deserve time to talk about your own wellbeing as well as the support your child needs.

Support in your area

Select a caring role to see a practical starting point. You can always contact the service if your situation is more complex or does not fit neatly into one box.

Find help with carer assessments, family support, education, benefits, short breaks and planning ahead.

Start with what is hardest today

Write down the tasks that take most time or energy, including support during the night.
Ask the local service which parent carer support and assessment routes are available.
Tell your GP how caring affects your sleep, health and ability to attend your own appointments.

Make education and services easier to navigate

Keep a short record of your child’s needs, what helps and the questions you want answered. In England, your council’s SEND Local Offer and local SENDIASS service can explain education and support routes. Ask for information in a format you can use and for decisions to be explained clearly.

Think about the whole family

Ask about short breaks and how to apply locally.
Make space for siblings to talk about their experience and ask about young carer support where relevant.
Request a benefits check for your circumstances; a diagnosis alone does not decide entitlement.
Talk through practical help from people you trust, without assuming family can take on care.

Prepare for changes as your child grows

Start conversations early about moving between education, health and adult services. Ask who is coordinating the transition, what happens next and how your child’s wishes will shape the plan. Review your own support needs too.

One manageable step this week

Make a list of three things that would make family life easier. Use it to start a conversation with the local service.