Caring for someone in Northern Ireland? Get the help and support you’re entitled to
Caring for someone – whether it’s a partner, parent, friend or neighbour – is one of the most important roles you can take on. But it can also be challenging. If you’re providing regular care to a veteran in Northern Ireland, or you’re a veteran providing care to someone else, it’s important to know about the help available. From financial support to practical services and emotional guidance, there are options designed to make your day-to-day life easier.
Here’s a clear, straightforward guide to what you can access right now.
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This guidance is for Northern Ireland. There are separate guides for England and Wales and Scotland.
Financial help for carers in Northern Ireland
Many carers in Northern Ireland miss out on money they’re entitled to simply through not knowing what they can claim. Even if you already receive benefits, you may still qualify for additional support, such as:
Carer benefits
If you live in Northern Ireland and care for someone for at least 35 hours a week, you may be able to claim:
Carer’s Allowance
This is a regular payment for people who provide unpaid care. You do not need to be related to the person you care for, but there are rules around earnings and other benefits.
Claiming Carer’s Allowance can also give you access to other financial help.
Carer’s Credit
If you care for someone for at least 20 hours a week, you may be eligible for Carer’s Credit.
This is a National Insurance credit that helps protect your State Pension if caring means you’re not working or earning enough to pay National Insurance.
Your income, savings or investments do not affect eligibility.
Universal Credit
Universal Credit is a monthly payment to help with living costs. It’s paid monthly in most cases.
You may be able to claim if you:
- are on a low income
- are out of work
- cannot work due to caring responsibilities or health reasons
You may receive extra help from Universal Credit if you’re caring for someone for more than 35 hours a week who is in receipt of a qualifying disability benefit.
Pension Credit
If you’re over State Pension age and on a low income, Pension Credit can give you extra money to help with:
- day‑to‑day living costs
- housing costs such as service charges or ground rent
You may receive extra help if you’re:
- a carer
- severely disabled
- responsible for a child or young person
Checking your entitlement can make a real difference to your financial security.
Armed Forces Compensation Scheme or War Pension Scheme
It’s important to note that, if you are receiving AFCS or WPS payments, this can affect your eligibility or the amount you receive for other means-tested benefits.
Contact MoD Veterans Services if you need more advice.
Help for carers in Northern Ireland through home adaptations
Caring often means making changes at home to keep someone safe and comfortable. These adjustments can be expensive, but help is out there.
Financial help may be available through your Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust or the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
Support may include:
- stair lifts
- walk‑in showers or accessible bathrooms
- ramps and widened doorways
- safety improvements and mobility aids
This support can reduce physical strain and make daily routines easier for both you and the person you care for.
Your local HSC Trust can advise you on assessments and applications.
Get a Carer’s Assessment
In Northern Ireland, carers have a right to a Carer’s Assessment. It’s free and anyone can ask for one.
This assessment looks at:
- how caring affects your life
- what support would help you
- your wellbeing and future goals
It can lead to practical help like:
- respite care (short breaks)
- equipment or home support
- access to local services
You can request an assessment through your local HSC Trust. It’s a key step in getting the right help as a carer.
Veteran organisations that can provide help for carers in Northern Ireland
You don’t have to manage caring responsibilities on your own. Several organisations offer support for carers of veterans in Northern Ireland.
Brooke House Health and Wellbeing Centre
Brooke House Health and Wellbeing Centre, based in Colebooke Park in Co Fermanagh, is a VALOUR-recognised centre and can help veterans and their families access care services across Northern Ireland.
They can provide advice and support for carers, such as:
- health and wellbeing support
- help with applications and processes
- referrals to specialist support for carers across the VALOUR network
Blind Veterans UK
Supports carers of visually impaired veterans with:
- specialist advice
- peer support groups
- practical guidance
Blesma, The Limbless Veterans
Blesma can provide:
- emotional support
- financial help
- expert prosthetics advice
- grants to assist with mobility and independence
The Royal British Legion
The Royal British Legion can provide:
- practical help
- financial guidance
- information about services for veterans and families
SSAFA – the Armed Forces Charity
SSAF – the Armed Forces Charity support carers through:
- welfare services
- emotional and listening support
- guidance for families of SSAFA beneficiaries
Need more options?
The GOV.UK veteran support directory allows you to search and filter organisations in one place. It’s a helpful tool for finding services that fit your situation.
Take breaks and look after yourself
Caring can take a toll on your physical and mental health. That’s why breaks, even short ones, are essential, not a luxury.
Through your HSC Trust or support organisations, you may be able to access:
- respite care
- day services
- short breaks funding
Looking after yourself helps you continue caring in a sustainable way.
You’re not alone – support is out there
Caring can feel like a full-time responsibility with little recognition. But help for carers in Northern Ireland is available to support you financially, practically and emotionally.
Whether you’re just starting your caring journey or have been doing it for years, reaching out for support can make a meaningful difference.
You deserve the right help, the right information and the chance to care without burning out.