AQW 50290/11-16

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 03/11/2015
Answered On Date: 04/01/2016
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how older and rurally based carers are made aware of support services available, such as carer's assessment and allowance.

Answer:

Under the Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002, Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts are required to ensure that information regarding a carer’s right to request an assessment of their needs is made generally available across the Trust area. HSC Trusts are also required to notify carers directly of their right to assessment, where it appears that an individual is carrying out a caring role and may benefit from the offer of support.

Carer’s Allowance is a benefit and is therefore the responsibility of the Department for Social Development.