Introduction

1.2    A carer is someone of any age who provides practical or emotional support to / looks after a family member, partner or friend who needs help because of frailty, physical or mental illness, or disability.  This does not usually include people who are paid, employed or volunteer to act as carers.

1.3    The Care Act allows local authorities to delegate certain social care duties to other individuals and organisations.  

1.4    In Gloucestershire, most Adult Social Care services for carers are provided on the council’s behalf by specialist partners (delegated organisations).  Delegated organisations are required to operate in accordance with this policy.

1.5    This policy applies to:

• adult carers who care for another adult including adults who self fund their care and support
• adult carers (of a child with care and support needs) who are eligible for a child’s carer’s assessment under section 60 of the Care Act (transition assessment see section 12) 
• young carers under 18 (who care for an adult) who are eligible for a young carer’s assessment under section 63 of the Care Act (transition assessment - see section 12)
• staff in Adult Social Care, brokerage and commissioning teams
• any delegated organisation authorised by the council to provide Adult Social Care services for carers. Delegated organisations must meet the requirements of this policy when acting on behalf of the council