Talk to someone

Caring for a child with additional needs can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with its challenges.

There is stark evidence of the impact of caring on parent carers. It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or emotionally drained as well as worried about the future. You may be so busy and focussed on your child, that you do not realise the impact that caring is having on your own health and wellbeing.

Talking to someone can make a big difference. It can give you the space to acknowledge what you’re going through and gain a new perspective on how to manage those emotions. It can also help to think about what to prioritise.

Thank you – I feel like I’ve got a clearer plan of action, it’s helpful to have my thought processes reflected back to me – helps me not to doubt myself.

There are several ways you can access support:

Carers often come to us for help to find the right support for the person they care for. We can also help you understand what your rights are as an unpaid carer, provide a safe space for you to explore your own needs, and offer support and guidance for planning for the future.

Many carers overlook their own needs until they are exhausted. Talking to a Carer Support Worker early on can really help. We also have volunteers available to listen, whether you need regular support or just a one-time chat.

We usually offer six one-to-one support sessions during office hours, and work with you to focus on what you need most in your caring role.

Carer Support Workers are available:

In person

We can arrange a meeting in-person in York at a location that works best for you.
Whether you prefer to meet at your home, at York Carers Centre – which is a calm and safe space, a favourite café, or even a walk in the park, we’re flexible!

We’re here to chat wherever you feel most comfortable discussing your caring role.

On the phone

We can offer support over the phone. We know that holding a conversation can sometimes be challenging due to interruptions or the need for breaks, and that’s completely okay! We’ll adapt our approach so that you can talk to us when it works best for you.

Online

We can support you online in a couple of different ways. You can email us with your request or concern, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. If you prefer, we can arrange a call via MS Teams or Zoom, or we can explore other options, such as using a messaging app that works best for you.

The great thing is that you don’t have to stick to just one method of support – you can mix and match as needed. The flexibility allows you to maintain the support you need, when you need it.

Contact us

If you need support or have a question, we are here to help, please get in touch.

Phone: 01904 715 490

Phone line opening hours:
Monday to Thursday: 9.30am to 4.30pm
Wednesday – advice line: 5pm to 8pm
Friday: 9.30am to 4pm

Email: enquiries@yorkcarerscentre.co.uk

Many carers find it useful to talk to others who are in a similar position and who understand their situation.

Carers often share hints and tips with each other and offer moral support which is invaluable.

York Parent Carer Forum provides various opportunities to meet with other parent carers, from coffee mornings to information sessions.

York Inspirational Kids is a group for parents/families of children with a disability and/or additional need. Offering support, friendship, activities, training and outings for both children and their families who live in the York area.

Requesting a Carer’s Assessment of Need can be a helpful first step in getting the support you need. It gives you the chance to talk to someone about how caring affects your life, health and wellbeing.

What is a Carers Assessment of Need?

The Carers Assessment of Need looks at how caring affects your life; physically, emotionally and practically, and whether you are able or willing to continue caring. Before your assessment, you will be advised to think carefully about how the caring role affects you and what type of support you would find helpful.

The person carrying out the assessment will discuss with you any support you may receive already and consider (alongside you) what support you may need to maintain or improve your wellbeing.

A Carers Assessment of Need is not about assessing how well you are carrying out your caring role; it is solely about supporting you as a carer.

Who can have a Carers Assessment of Need?

You may be entitled to a Parent Carer Assessment if you:

Are a parent or person with parental responsibility, and
Provide regular and ongoing care because your child has a disability, special educational needs, or a long-term physical or mental health condition.
The person you are caring for is under 18 years of age

A formal diagnosis is not always required to request an assessment.

Your rights as a Parent Carer and getting support?

All Local Authorities are responsible for ensuring Carer Assessments of Need are carried out as the law requires within the Care Act 2014 and the Children and Families Act part 3
Caring can have a significant impact on daily life. An assessment helps identify:

How caring affects your physical and mental health
Stress, exhaustion, and sleep difficulties
Impact on work, education, or training
Financial pressures
Effects on relationships and family life
Your need for breaks, practical help, or emotional support

The aim is to ensure you receive appropriate, needs-led support.

How do I ask for a Carers Assessment of Need?
If you are a parent carer, you can ask for a carers assessment by

Contacting your child’s social worker or the Council’s Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub on 01904 551 900
Making a written request (email or letter) to mash@york.gov.uk
Asking a social worker, school, SEN team, or GP to make a referral

How can York Carers Centre support you?
If you need any help with requesting a Carers Assessment of Need please register with us and we can help you understand the process. If you are already registered, please contact us on enquiries@yorkcarerscentre.co.uk

Counselling can be beneficial to help with coping strategies and offering a space to talk openly and in-depth, without fear of judgment.

To access our counselling service, you must register with us, please mention that you are interested in carers counselling when you register.

If you are already registered with us and would like counselling around your caring role, please call 01904 715 490 or email enquiries@yorkcarerscentre.co.uk

There are several organisations who provide counselling, either generally, or specifically around your caring role.

Access to counselling resources

Our Advice Worker and Benefits Adviser can help you in claiming the benefits and allowances you’re entitled to and signpost to support with completing forms.

Many thanks for your time with me today. I feel very listened to, with new insights about our situation, plus lots of practical ideas. I’m very grateful for your help and support.