Article: Carers' services Article Body Support for Carers A carer is someone who looks after a relative, partner or friend who, because of disability, illness or old age or special condition, cannot manage without help. This includes young carers, parents or others bringing up a child with a disability. Carers have rights under the Carers (Recognition and Services) Act. You have the right to talk to someone about your situation and have your needs assessed separately to the person you care for. Support for carers is available from Barnsley Council and the NHS Barnsley, as well as voluntary organisations both locally and nationally and includes: advice and information about benefits and support services services to provide a break from caring practical help at home If you want advice about organisations who can help you, or want an assessment of your needs as a carer from Adult Social Services, please contact your nearest Locality Team or telephone (01226) 775656 or email socialservices@barnsley.gov.uk Young Carers Young Carers have the right to have their needs assessed under The Children Act 1989. The person you care for may have a disability, mental ill health, a drug or alcohol related problem or may be an older relative who needs more care. If you are a young person (aged 17 or younger) caring for someone within your family, advice, information and in some cases, additional support is available. If you want to talk to someone about the help you can get you should contact your local children and families team. You can find the telephone number by clicking the children and families link. Having your say about how Carers' services are planned and developed If you would like to participate and have your say in the planning and development of Carers' services and also be kept informed about Carers' issues in Barnsley, please contact Lilian Lettin, Carers' Lead, Joint Commissioning Unit, PO Box 679, Barnsley, S70 9JE. Telephone 01226 775195. Fax 01226 772399. Email lilianlettin@barnsley.gov.uk Useful Websites Further information and details of other national organisations are available at Direct.gov There are a number of national groups who can also offer support and advice to carers. Carers UK is the voice of carers. It aims to improve carers' lives by fighting for equality and recognition for carers. Carers UK campaigns for changes that make a real difference for carers and provides information and advice on carers' right and how to get support.