Dementia book updates
Ability Training Awards, with Able Training
Walking Alongside, Section 14
Carers' rights in England: assessments, support, work and money
Last checked: 16 October 2026. Checked by Able Training Support Ltd.
What the book says (October 2026)
Carer's assessment. Under the Care Act 2014, the local authority must offer an assessment to any adult carer who appears to need support, whatever the level of need or the carer's finances.
Support plan. If the carer has eligible needs, the local authority must meet them: breaks, a sitting service, training, or help with the carer's own health.
Young carers. Under the Children and Families Act 2014, a child who cares for someone has the right to an assessment of their own needs.
Work. Employees who are carers can request flexible working, and under the Carer's Leave Act 2023 can take unpaid carer's leave each year.
Money. Carers may be entitled to Carer's Allowance and other support.
What has changed since
- Carer's Allowance is £86.45 a week from April 2026. The carer can earn up to £204 a week (after allowable deductions) and still claim.
- Carer's leave is up to one week of unpaid leave in any 12 months, from the first day of a job. No evidence is needed.
- The government consulted in summer 2026 on whether carer's leave should be paid or extended. The consultation closed on 1 September 2026 and no decision has been published yet.
Why it matters
Family carers often look after the person for years before anyone asks how they are coping. Many do not know they have rights of their own.
What you can do
Tell family carers they have their own rights, separate from the person they care for, and point them to the local authority and Carers UK.
Official sources
Other updates
About these pages. The books Walking Alongside: Understanding Dementia and Dementia Awareness were written by Andy Baker and Meghan Earle and created by Able Training Support Ltd. These update pages are checked and kept up to date by Able Training, and published by Ability Training Awards.
These pages give general information about England. They are not legal or medical advice. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own laws and guidance. Always follow your organisation's current policy, and speak to your manager if you are unsure.
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