Reliable information can make caring responsibilities and career decisions easier. This page brings together trusted UK organisations offering practical guidance, professional-development information and urgent support.
Some services and eligibility rules differ across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Check each organisation’s website for guidance relevant to where you live.
Support for unpaid carers
NHS support for carers
The NHS support and benefits for carers guide covers carer’s assessments, respite care, financial support and help for young carers.
A carer’s assessment is free and can help identify support that may make caring responsibilities more manageable.
Carers UK
Carers UK provides information about benefits, practical support, employment rights, wellbeing and connecting with other carers.
Its free Looking after someone guide is a helpful starting point for anyone caring for a family member or friend.
Care services and assessments
The NHS social care and support guide explains care services, home adaptations, help following a hospital stay and ways to access local support.
If someone is finding everyday activities difficult, they or a representative can request a free care needs assessment from their local council.
Money and benefits
The NHS provides an introduction to benefits for carers, including places to obtain specialist advice.
The government’s benefits calculators can provide an estimate of the financial support someone may be entitled to receive. A calculator gives an estimate rather than a formal decision, so seek qualified advice before making important financial changes.
Careers and professional development
Skills for Care career progression provides information about adult social care roles, qualifications and development opportunities.
England’s Care Workforce Pathway describes the knowledge, skills, values and behaviours expected across different adult social care roles.
You can also read our guide on How to Progress from Care Assistant to Senior Carer.
Health and wellbeing
Visit the NHS mental health information hub for information about feelings, symptoms, self-help and accessing professional services.
Our articles also provide practical starting points:
Browse our Topics page or visit the Blog for more guidance.
If you need urgent help
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E.
For urgent physical or mental-health help in England, use NHS 111 online or call 111. For confidential emotional support, Samaritans can be contacted free at any time on 116 123.
Tea and Care UK does not provide emergency, medical, legal or financial services. The organisations listed here are responsible for their own information and services.