Are you an unpaid carer?
If you look after someone without being paid, you are an unpaid carer.
There is support for you.
You can find help on Carers Corner.
It is important to understand how care is paid for. This helps you make good choices about your future.
Getting advice from someone who knows about money can help you use your money in the best way.
You can get free advice from:
You may want to ask for a needs assessment.
This is a check done by social services to see what support you can get.
You can:
The assessment can also look at changes to your home that may help you.
These are called adjustments, like grab rails or an adapted shower.
The Leeds City Council Welfare Rights team may also be able to help.
They can give advice and answer questions.
You can call them on 0113 376 0452.
You may also want to learn about NHS Continuing Healthcare and Lasting Powers of Attorney.
If someone is very ill and might be near the end of their life, a doctor can fill in a form called an SR1. This form helps people get certain benefits more quickly. These are called the Special Rules.
You may also be able to get Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
PIP is money from the government for people who find everyday tasks hard because of illness.
This might include:
How much you pay will depend on:
Depending on your needs, you may qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare.
NHS Continuing Healthcare is free care and support for adults with serious health needs.
It is paid for by the NHS.
You may be able to get this care if:
You do not have to pay for this care.
No one will check your money or savings.
But your health team will check what kind of care you need.
They will look at:
You and your family will be part of this check (called an assessment).
Your views will be listened to.
You can get NHS Continuing Healthcare:
If your health is getting worse quickly and you are near the end of your life, your doctor or nurse can ask for Fast‑Track care.
This means help can be set up quickly, usually within 48 hours.
In Leeds, the Health Case Management Service can help you:
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal paper.
It lets you choose someone you trust to make decisions for you if you cannot decide or speak for yourself.
For health and welfare, this person can help with:
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal paper.
It lets you choose someone you trust to make decisions for you if you cannot decide or speak for yourself.
An LPA for money and property means that person can: