What is a carer's assessment and how do I get one?
Part of Carer wellbeing
By CareCircle Family editorial team · Published 2026-09-26 · Last reviewed 2026-09-26 · 5 min read
A carer's assessment is a conversation with your local council about your own needs as an unpaid carer. Contact adult social care and ask how to arrange one; it is separate from the assessment of the person you support.
What the conversation covers
Think about your time, work, health, relationships and what might make caring more sustainable. You can describe what is difficult as well as what is working.
Prepare before you call
Note your caring tasks and their impact over a typical week. Ask the council what happens next, when you will hear back and how to get a written record.
A practical checklist
- Contact your local council adult social care team
- Make a list of responsibilities and their impact
- Ask how decisions and next steps will be recorded
- Keep a copy of the assessment and follow-up contacts
Official guidance and further reading
Check these organisations for the latest rules and guidance for your location.
Frequently asked questions
- Is a carer's assessment the same as a care needs assessment?
- No. A carer's assessment looks at the unpaid carer's own support needs; a care needs assessment looks at the person who may need care.
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