You may find that you're spending many hours a week caring for your loved one. You might even have quit work to support them through tough times. If you're finding caring difficult, there is support out there for you.

If you're struggling financially, emotionally or physically, you may be entitled to a Carers Assessment through your local council.

The Carers Assessment allows you to discuss your need for support and services. The assessment looks at how caring affects your life, including your mental and emotional wellbeing, and whether you're able or willing to continue caring for an individual. You're entitled to a Carers Assessment regardless of the amount of support you provide or your financial means.

When making an appointment, your local council should inform you who will be taking the assessment. This is usually completed by your local social services department or through another organisation.

An assessment will cover:

• your caring role and how it affects your life and wellbeing
• your health, including physical, mental and emotional issues
• your feelings and choices around caring
• work, study, training and leisure
• relationships, social activities and goals
• housing
• planning for emergencies (such as a Carer Emergency Scheme) - the local council should be able to tell you more about what they can do to help you plan for an emergency.

For further information about Carers Assessments, please take a look at the Carers UK website. You might also want to contact your local council to find out more.