Caring for a child with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) can be rewarding, but it can also bring extra pressures, responsibilities, and financial challenges. There is support available to help. This section provides clear, straightforward information about the benefits, financial help, and practical support that parents and carers may be entitled to.
Whether you are new to the SEND system or looking to understand what additional help you could access, this guide will walk you through the key benefits, how to apply, and where to find further advice. Our aim is to make the process easier to navigate so you can focus on what matters most – supporting your child.
Carer's Allowance is paid to people who look after someone with substantial caring needs. You do not have to be related to, or live with the person you care for and you may qualify if:
Carer's Allowance is paid to people who look after someone with substantial caring needs. You do not have to be related to, or live with the person you care for and you may qualify if:
Carer’s Credit is a National Insurance credit that helps with gaps in your National Insurance record. Your State Pension is based on your National Insurance record. To qualify for Carer's Credit you must be looking after one or more people for a total of at least 20 hours per week.
Each person you care for must get one of the following:
Carer’s Credit is a National Insurance credit that helps with gaps in your National Insurance record. Your State Pension is based on your National Insurance record. To qualify for Carer's Credit you must be looking after one or more people for a total of at least 20 hours per week.
Each person you care for must get one of the following:
There are a number of ways you may be able to get help with your council tax.
See further information about Council Tax / Rate relief from Carers UK.
There are a number of ways you may be able to get help with your council tax.
See further information about Council Tax / Rate relief from Carers UK.