Navigating the UK care system often feels like working a second job. With significant updates to the Carer's Allowance earnings limit and the Carer's Leave Act now firmly established, there are important changes to know — whether you are an unpaid family carer or a professional Personal Assistant (PA).
For Unpaid Carers
The Right to Carer's Leave
As of April 2024, the Carer's Leave Act gives employees a "day one" right to take up to one week of unpaid leave every 12 months to care for a dependant with a long-term care need. It can be taken as individual days or half-days. Your employer cannot refuse the request (though they can postpone it if business is significantly disrupted), and you are protected from dismissal for using it.
Carer's Allowance (2025/26)
The main benefit for carers pays £83.30 per week if you care for someone for at least 35 hours a week and they receive certain qualifying benefits (such as PIP or Attendance Allowance). The earnings limit is £196 per week after tax and NI deductions.
If you earn too much for Carer's Allowance, apply for Carer's Credit — it fills gaps in your National Insurance record to protect your future State Pension entitlement.
Scotland: The Carer Support Payment has replaced Carer's Allowance for Scottish residents at the same rate (£83.30/week) but with more generous rules around education.
For Professional Personal Assistants
Employment Rights
As an employed PA you have full employment rights from day one: a written contract is required, the National Living Wage applies (£12.21/hour for those aged 21+ as of April 2025), you are entitled to 5.6 weeks of paid holiday per year, and if eligible, your employer must enrol you in a workplace pension scheme.
Insurance Requirements
Employer's Liability Insurance is a legal requirement for anyone who directly employs a carer, including via direct payments. This is the employer's (the care recipient's) obligation — but check it is in place before you start work, as it protects you if you are injured or ill as a result of your work.
Public Liability Insurance — if you are self-employed, this protects you if you accidentally injure a client or damage their property. It is not legally mandatory for self-employed PAs, but it is strongly recommended and relatively inexpensive (from around £69–£78 per year).
Compare carers and PA insurance on Compear — we list the leading UK specialist providers.
Universal Rights for All Carers
Flexible working: All employees have the right to request flexible working from day one — up to two requests per year.
Carer's Assessment: Your statutory right under the Care Act 2014. The council assesses your needs as a carer — if eligible, support can include direct payments, respite care, or practical services.
Emergency planning: Create a contingency plan for the person you care for. Check whether your local council offers a Carer's Emergency Card.
Useful Resources
ACAS — flexible working and employment rights
Professional carer or personal assistant? Compare carers and PA insurance on Compear — specialist public liability cover from £69/year.
This guide reflects UK legislation and benefit rates for the 2025/26 financial year. Benefit entitlements are subject to annual review. This article is for information and signposting only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Check specific eligibility with ACAS, GOV.UK or a qualified adviser.