What Is Carers Rights Day?
Carers Rights Day takes place on Thursday 19th November. This year we are all being urged to ask ‘Someone you know is a carer, but do they know it?’
Too often we hear from carers how much they struggled balancing their lives and caring responsibilities. The costs, not just financially but also emotionally, socially and physically, were only theirs to bear. They thought they were alone—they were wrong.
Every day, a staggering 12,000 people become unpaid carers, often without realising the full implications of their new role. Many carers are unaware of their legal rights and the support they are entitled to.
Carers Trust Solihull supports around 6,000 unpaid carers, and everyday we continue to reach more carers who thought they were alone. Now they are offered and supported with respite, resources, and access to other services, charities and organisations. Knowing you’re a carer is the first step towards being cared for.
Join us this Carers Rights Day and help us to spread the knowledge that so many are desperate to hear.
Remember, ‘someone you know is a carer, but do they know it?’
Your Rights
Unpaid carers face unique challenges—financial pressures, practical struggles, and emotional demands are all part of the caring journey.
Nearly two-thirds of carers report being worried about covering basic living costs or managing in the future, with many cutting back on essentials like food and heating.
Knowing where to turn, and understanding one’s rights is essential.
Financial
If you would like more in-depth explanation of the below information, you can read our guide to Carer’s Financial Support by clicking here.
Carer's Allowance
A benefit for individuals who provide at least 35 hours a week of care to someone on disability benefits. It’s not means-tested but can impact other benefits. Only one carer can claim per person cared for, and recipients receive National Insurance credits.
Carer's Credit
A National Insurance credit to fill gaps in contribution records for carers providing 20+ hours of care per week (but less than 35), protecting future State Pension. It is not a payment and isn’t means-tested.
Attendance Allowance
For individuals over State Pension age needing help due to disability or health conditions. It provides extra money (at two possible rates) depending on care needs and is not means-tested.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Supports people aged 16+ with long-term health conditions by covering extra daily living and mobility costs. Not means-tested. Assessed on how the condition impacts everyday life. Having a carer is not required to apply.
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for Children
Financial support for children under 16 who require much more care or supervision than others their age due to disability. Award rates depend on the level of help needed and are not impacted by parents’ income or work status.
Energy Bill Support
Carers and those they care for can access various grants, cold weather payments, energy bill support, free safety checks, and debt funds. Charities, local schemes, and water bill reduction schemes also provide practical financial assistance.
Council Tax Discounts
Unpaid carers may qualify for council tax discounts depending on their relationship and the cared-for person’s benefits. Further reductions for low-income or crisis situations exist. Notifications are important if household changes.
Legal Matters
Carer’s Assessment
All adult carers in England are entitled to a free assessment by their local council to identify needs for support, consider impact on all areas of life, and develop a personalised support plan (which may include a personal budget).
Learn more about Carer’s Assessments with Solihull Council
Learn more with “Your Guide to Carer’s Assessments”
Parity of Esteem and Information Rights
The Care Act 2014 mandates that carers’ needs are valued equally to those of the people they care for. Councils must offer accessible information/advice and promote carer wellbeing, prevention, and advocacy.
Hospital Discharge and Complaints
Carers must be involved in planning for a loved one’s hospital discharge and have the right to complain if not properly included.
Click here to read more about Hospital Discharges and Complaints
Power of Attorney, Wills, Probate, and Trusts
Guidance on making a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), writing a will, and managing estates or trusts to ensure financial and care decisions are legally protected, with support available via legal professionals and carer workshops.
Click here to read more about Power of Attorney and Wills with
Employment
Carers Leave
From April 2024, employees can take up to one week of unpaid leave per year for caring responsibilities, available from day one of employment and can be taken flexibly.
Flexible Working
Carers can formally request changes to their work arrangements from the start of employment (no longer needing to wait 26 weeks). Employers must consider and consult before rejecting.
Click here to read more about Flexible Working
Learn more with “Your Guide to Carer’s Rights at Work”
Attendance Allowance
For individuals over State Pension age needing help due to disability or health conditions. It provides extra money (at two possible rates) depending on care needs and is not means-tested.
Protection from Discrimination
The Equality Act 2010 protects carers against discrimination at work related to their association with a disabled person.
Click here to read more about Protection from Discrimination
Parental Leave
Parents or those with legal parental responsibility for a child under 18 (employed for at least a year) have the right to up to 18 weeks’ unpaid leave per child, normally up to four weeks per year, plus bereavement leave if needed.
Emergency and Wellbeing
Emergency and Contingency Planning
Carers are encouraged to develop a contingency plan (templates and support available) to ensure the cared-for person has support in emergencies, with advice on keeping the plan up to date and communicating it to others.
Click here to read more about Emergency and Contingency Planning
Crisis Support and Mental Health Resources
Carers can access helplines, drop-in centres, advice on self-soothing, online therapies, and urgent mental health assistance tailored specifically for unpaid carers.
Click here to read more about Mental and Physical Wellbeing
Carers Trust Solihull Mental Health Support
Health and Wellbeing Support
Carers can access mental health support, wellbeing workshops, health toolkits, resilience-building programs, and local NHS and charity resources to manage their own health while caring for someone else.
Respite Rights
Carers can access respite through council services after an assessment, offering funded breaks, day centres, care at home, and support from family, the NHS, or charities. Some options may require self-funding or grants.
Click here to read more about Respite
Find out ‘What’s On’ for carer with our activities, events and newsletters.
Social and Community Support
Carers can join support groups, social events, and well-being sessions—often run by local carer organisations—to reduce isolation, get practical help, and meet others who understand their situation.
Find out ‘What’s On’ for carer with our activities, events and newsletters.
Young Carer Rights
As part of Carers Week, we are delighted to celebrate the launch of our new Young Carers Promise on Tuesday 17th November. We have worked closely with a group of young carers and Solihull Council to review and shape the Promise, ensuring the voices and experiences of young carers are at its heart. We are also excited to see our partner services come together to sign up to the Promise and show their shared commitment to supporting young carers.
We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and look forward to sharing the new Promise with you all following the launch. Watch this space!
Young carers (aged 5–18) and young adult carers (16–25) in Solihull are protected both by strong legal rights and a comprehensive support system tailored to their needs.
Carers Trust Solihull provides a wide range of practical support, beginning with a personalised assessment and continuing through bespoke support plans covering health, education, work, social life, and emotional wellbeing.
Young Carer Rights (Presentation)
To progress the presentation below, simply click or tap the image.
Young Carer Assessment
A young carers assessment helps to understand daily life and what support is needed; it’s simply an informal conversation with a support worker rather than a test. The assessment explores the caring tasks carried out at home, the impact on social life, health, and education, and considers both current and possible future support for the young carer and their family. Afterwards, a support plan is put together by the support worker, detailing practical ideas and resources to help in your caring role.
Register with us as the first step to receiving your Carer’s Assessment
Educational Support for Young Carers
Schools are required to identify and proactively support young carers, designating leads, offering flexible policies, and participating in national award schemes (like Young Carers in Schools) to reduce stigma and provide tailored help.
Learn more about Keeping Children Safe in School
Learn more about the Young Carers in School
Programme (YCiS) here & here
Learn more about Education Support
Learn more about Young Carers in Education (Carers Trust)
Young Carers in School (YCiS) Programme
Around one in five secondary school students is estimated to be a young carer, though official school census data in 2024 showed that only 0.6% of pupils (about 53,976 nationally) were recorded as young carers—a significant under-identification likely due to low awareness and inconsistent recording practices in schools.
The Young Carers in Schools (YCiS) programme, led by Carers Trust and The Children’s Society, provides a structured approach for schools to better identify, support, and celebrate young carers, addressing this gap and advocating for best practice.
Learn more about the Young Carers in School Programme here & here
Young Carer Rights (Presentation)
To progress the presentation below, simply click or tap the image.
Young Carer Assessment
A young carers assessment helps to understand daily life and what support is needed; it’s simply an informal conversation with a support worker rather than a test. The assessment explores the caring tasks carried out at home, the impact on social life, health, and education, and considers both current and possible future support for the young carer and their family. Afterwards, a support plan is put together by the support worker, detailing practical ideas and resources to help in your caring role.
Register with us as the first step to receiving your Carer’s Assessment
Educational Support for Young Carers
Schools are required to identify and proactively support young carers, designating leads, offering flexible policies, and participating in national award schemes (like Young Carers in Schools) to reduce stigma and provide tailored help.
Learn more about Keeping Children Safe in School
Learn more about the Young Carers in School
Programme (YCiS) here & here
Learn more about Education Support
Learn more about Young Carers in Education (Carers Trust)
Young Carers in School (YCiS) Programme
Around one in five secondary school students is estimated to be a young carer, though official school census data in 2024 showed that only 0.6% of pupils (about 53,976 nationally) were recorded as young carers—a significant under-identification likely due to low awareness and inconsistent recording practices in schools.
The Young Carers in Schools (YCiS) programme, led by Carers Trust and The Children’s Society, provides a structured approach for schools to better identify, support, and celebrate young carers, addressing this gap and advocating for best practice.
Learn more about the Young Carers in School Programme here & here
Our Plans
Last year, we made a change to our usual Carers Rights Day format, and held two events in the north and south of Solihull. It was a massive success with more carers who couldn’t usually come being able to attend.
We have selected a range of guests to be at our events who cover a wide range of topics and concerns that greatly affect unpaid carers. From financial and legal, to benefits and health, should you have any worries or require support then you will find the help you need.
Should you need to pay for parking you will be reimbursed; you will need to be registered with Carers Trust Solihull. It is not essential but please bring your Carers ID card to speed up the reimbursement process. If you need a new Carer’s ID card then please get in contact with us by clicking here.
We will be joined by other local charities and organisations who can help unpaid carers with a wide variety of support. No matter your concerns, questions or needs we’re certain you’ll find someone there who can help you.
This list may very well expand as we receive more confirmations, so be sure you come back and to follow us on social media for the latest news and guests.
South Solihull Event
Thursday 19th November
1PM ̶ 3PM
The Core Theatre
(Rear of Touchwood)
Homer Road
South Solihull
B91 3RG
View On Map
Location
The Library is next to the Touchwood Shopping Centre, and is on Theatre Square. The nearest car parks are Touchwood and Church Hill.
Bus Stops
Bus stops in Solihull are on Poplar Road as well as Solihull Station Interchange, which is near Solihull Railway station.
Bus Routes
Bus routes: 1S, 4, 4A, 5, 6, 27, 49, 72, 73, 76, 82, 87, 188, 223, 233, 513, 514, 519, 601, 602, 630, 631, 664, 665, A6, A7, A8, A9, A10, X2, X12, X20
Parking at the South Solihull Event will be reimbursed to you. We will cover costs of up to 3 hours of parking.
Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council
Carers Assessments & Community Development Team
Solihull Council provides support for unpaid carers of all ages within the borough, working in partnership with organisations like Carers Trust Solihull to ensure carers can access advice, emotional support, and practical help.
The Council commissions carers assessments, develops personalised support plans, and offers guidance on benefits, wellbeing, and emergency help.
Direct payments or grants may be available to enable carers to take breaks or look after their own wellbeing, and staff are always on hand to signpost further services and information.
Sydney Mitchell Solicitors LLP
Wills, Power of attorney & all legal aspects
Providers of award-winning legal services in Solihull, covering family law, conveyancing, wills and probate, employment, immigration, and more. Their expert team supports individuals and businesses with clear advice and compassionate service, helping you resolve legal matters confidently.
Sydney Mitchell have been consistent supporters of Carers Trust Solihull over the years. They have provided invaluable donations via fundraising, as well as free workshops for out carers, and been guests on our podcast, Carers Talk, discussing Wills and Power of Attorney, which you can listen to here.
Marie Curie
Hospice care
Marie Curie Nurses and healthcare professionals provide expert hospice care, whatever the illness, in the comfort of home and hospice. Whether you have months, weeks or days left to live, our services help provide you with clinical care and emotional support, assisting you so you’re able to live the best life you can to the end.
UB Healthcare
NHS FUNDED CARE
Solihull-based company that works as an NHS delivery partner specialising in Continuing Healthcare assessments, reviews, complex case brokerage and community care placements. It works with the NHS, social care and independent care providers nationally on NHS-funded care, complex case management and patient flow.
Solihull Healthy Active Lives
Healthy lifestyle support in Solihull
Local support to help you improve your health, build habits that fit your life and find the right next step for you or your family. Whether you are looking for structured weight management support, family support or simple ways to be more active.
Citizens Advice Solihull Borough
Free Practical Advice
A charity providing advice on benefits and welfare rights, consumer issues, employment and housing rights, legal issues, money and debt.
solihull action through advocacy
independent advocacy for vulnerable people in Solihull
An independent charity that has provided advocacy for over 25 years, mainly for people with learning disabilities and/or autism. It works with over 600 people each year to help them speak up about decisions affecting them. Its scope also covers dementia and mental health challenges.
SoLO
supports children, young people and adults with learning disabilities
Founded in 2000, Social Life Opportunities supports children, young people and adults with learning disabilities. Employing highly trained individuals (130 staff plus a team of dedicated volunteers), all dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of our service users. Concurrently, maintaining a pool of volunteers, all of whom have undergone comprehensive enhanced DBS checks and training. Many of their volunteers join with the aim of gaining valuable career experience, and a substantial number of them continue their journey extended periods, driven by their genuine enthusiasm and enjoyment.
Solihull Healthcare Partnership
Partnership of GP Surgeries
Solihull Healthcare Partnership, which provides NHS GP services to over 55,000 patients through one GP practice operating from seven surgeries across Solihull and Shirley. A more recent listing puts the figure at over 57,000 patients. Its stated vision is person-centred care at the heart of the community.
AgeUK
here for older Solihull residents
A local charity whose mission is to improve the lives of all older people in the borough. Its services include a Home Support Service, falls prevention classes, a Digital Champion project and support for carers. It also runs befriending and loneliness services such as Community Connections.
EnvolveWell
specialised in Staying fit
Providers of specialised exercise programmes for people with long-term health conditions and additional needs. Its work includes Strong & Steady falls prevention, Dance for Dementia, Dance for Parkinson’s and autism-friendly Family BoxerciSEN classes. It covers Solihull, Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, Stratford and Coventry
North Solihull Event
Friday 20th November
10AM ̶ 12PM
10 West Mall
Chelmsley Wood Library
Chelmsley Wood Shopping Centre
B37 5TN
View On Map
Location
The library is on the second floor, there is lift access to that floor, and escalator access to the first floor then stairs.
Bus Stops
There is free parking for up to 3 hours in the Asda car park, and also in the Chelmsley Wood Shopping Centre.
Bus Routes
Bus routes: 71, 72, X12, X13, 14, 97, 891, 94, 94A, 95, 96
Parking is free for up to 3 hours at Asda car park and Chelmsley Wood Car Park.
Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council
Carers Assessments & Community Development Team
Solihull Council provides support for unpaid carers of all ages within the borough, working in partnership with organisations like Carers Trust Solihull to ensure carers can access advice, emotional support, and practical help.
The Council commissions carers assessments, develops personalised support plans, and offers guidance on benefits, wellbeing, and emergency help.
Direct payments or grants may be available to enable carers to take breaks or look after their own wellbeing, and staff are always on hand to signpost further services and information.
Sydney Mitchell Solicitors LLP
Wills, Power of attorney & all legal aspects
Providers of award-winning legal services in Solihull, covering family law, conveyancing, wills and probate, employment, immigration, and more. Their expert team supports individuals and businesses with clear advice and compassionate service, helping you resolve legal matters confidently.
Sydney Mitchell have been consistent supporters of Carers Trust Solihull over the years. They have provided invaluable donations via fundraising, as well as free workshops for out carers, and been guests on our podcast, Carers Talk, discussing Wills and Power of Attorney, which you can listen to here.
Marie Curie
Hospice care
Marie Curie Nurses and healthcare professionals provide expert hospice care, whatever the illness, in the comfort of home and hospice. Whether you have months, weeks or days left to live, our services help provide you with clinical care and emotional support, assisting you so you’re able to live the best life you can to the end.
UB Healthcare
NHS Funded Care
Solihull-based company that works as an NHS delivery partner specialising in Continuing Healthcare assessments, reviews, complex case brokerage and community care placements. It works with the NHS, social care and independent care providers nationally on NHS-funded care, complex case management and patient flow.
Solihull Healthy Active Lives
Healthy lifestyle support in Solihull
Local support to help you improve your health, build habits that fit your life and find the right next step for you or your family. Whether you are looking for structured weight management support, family support or simple ways to be more active.
Citizens Advice Solihull Borough
Free Practical Advice
A charity providing advice on benefits and welfare rights, consumer issues, employment and housing rights, legal issues, money and debt.
solihull action through advocacy
independent advocacy for vulnerable people in Solihull
An independent charity that has provided advocacy for over 25 years, mainly for people with learning disabilities and/or autism. It works with over 600 people each year to help them speak up about decisions affecting them. Its scope also covers dementia and mental health challenges.
SoLO
supports children, young people and adults with learning disabilities
Founded in 2000, Social Life Opportunities supports children, young people and adults with learning disabilities. Employing highly trained individuals (130 staff plus a team of dedicated volunteers), all dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of our service users. Concurrently, maintaining a pool of volunteers, all of whom have undergone comprehensive enhanced DBS checks and training. Many of their volunteers join with the aim of gaining valuable career experience, and a substantial number of them continue their journey extended periods, driven by their genuine enthusiasm and enjoyment.
Healthwatch Solihull
Health and Social Care Services
Run jointly with Healthwatch Birmingham. It is the independent champion for people who use health and social care services in the borough. It collects feedback on GPs, dentists, hospitals, care homes and other services, passes it to those who run and commission them, and offers information and signposting.
Ambacare Solutions
promotion of health and wellbeing
They aim to tackle health, housing and social inequalities for marginalised and disadvantaged people and communities. A key service is the ‘Dementia Buddy’ programme. Buddies are trained, enhanced DBS-checked volunteers who provide a befriending service for people living with dementia and/or their carers.
