When your child has extra needs—medical, emotional or developmental—you’re not just parenting. You’re also caring, coordinating, fighting for support, and planning for tomorrow. You may have asked yourself, how to become a carer for my child—not just in daily life, but officially. Here’s the answer upfront: in the UK, you don’t need a qualification to be your child’s carer. But you can and should apply for the rights, support, and recognition you deserve.
This blog walks you through how to make your role as a parent-carer official, the benefits that come with it, and the options for training if you want to deepen your skills. We’ll also look at financial help, support networks, and how to keep going when things feel heavy.
What Does It Mean to Be a Parent-Carer?
If your child needs extra support because of a health condition or disability, you’re already a carer—even if no one’s told you yet. Being a parent-carer means you care for your child in a way most parents don’t have to. That can mean giving medication, managing therapy plans, chasing appointments, helping with personal care, or keeping your child safe 24/7.
You’re probably juggling work, family, stress, and worry all at once. You might not even realise there’s support out there just for you. But there is—and you’re entitled to it.
How to Become a Carer for My Child: What You Need to Know
You don’t need to register or get certified to be your child’s carer. But if your child receives Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and you care for them 35 hours or more each week, you can claim Carer’s Allowance. In 2025, that’s about £83.30 a week. It’s not a big amount, but it can help.
You apply online through GOV.UK. You’ll need your National Insurance number and details about the care you provide. Be honest. List all the little things. They matter.
Also ask your local council for a Parent Carer Needs Assessment. This looks at how caring affects your wellbeing. It’s not about judging your parenting. It’s about making sure you’re supported too. You can request this even if your child doesn’t get services yet.
The council may offer things like respite care, financial support, or help with transport. Sometimes they just point you to local groups. Either way, it’s worth doing.
Training and Support: Growing Your Confidence as a Carer
You don’t need formal training to love and care for your child. But some parents find that learning more helps. It can ease the fear of “getting it wrong.” It can also build your confidence when working with health or education professionals.
That’s why many parent-carers choose to take online courses in child care, autism awareness, or special needs support. At Unified Course, our online Child Care Courses are made for real-life parents. They’re flexible, easy to follow, and give you tools you can use straight away.
You might also think about becoming a qualified child care professional. If you enjoy the work and want to help other children too, you can study for an Early Years qualification. That opens doors to work in nurseries, schools, or as a registered childminder. And yes, you can study from home, at your pace.
Child Carer Qualifications: What If I Want to Work in Childcare?
If you’re thinking about working as a child carer for other families, you’ll need at least a Level 2 qualification in childcare. Many jobs ask for Level 3. These cover child development, health and safety, safeguarding, and learning support.
You’ll also need a DBS check and paediatric first aid training. Some people start as nursery assistants and learn on the job. Others do an apprenticeship. Either way, you build experience while earning.
Becoming a professional carer isn’t for everyone—but for some parents, it’s a natural next step. You already have the heart for it.
What Support Can Parent-Carers Claim in the UK?
Besides Carer’s Allowance, you may be able to claim:
- Universal Credit (with childcare costs): If you’re on a low income and using paid childcare.
- Child Disability Payment: In Scotland.
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA): For your child under 16.
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP): For children 16+.
- Disabled Facilities Grants: For home adaptations.
Also explore local offers from your council. Every area has a Local Offer website listing services, clubs, and funding for children with additional needs.
What Counts as Childcare—and What Doesn’t?
Only registered childcare counts for government support. That includes nurseries, Ofsted-registered childminders, approved nannies, and after-school clubs. Family members (like grandma) usually don’t count—unless they’re a registered childminder working from their own home.
You can use Tax-Free Childcare or Universal Credit to get help with these costs. But you can’t use them to pay a relative who babysits at your house. It has to be formal care.
Can I Be Paid to Care for My Own Child?
If your child has complex needs, the council may offer Direct Payments. This money is meant to pay for care—but some local authorities allow parents to use it to pay themselves. Others don’t. You’ll need to check with your social worker or council.
Most families, though, get Carer’s Allowance. It’s a basic recognition of the care you give. It won’t replace a full-time wage, but it shows that your time has value.
Different Types of Childcare in the UK
Understanding your options can help when you’re deciding what support your child needs. The main types are:
- Day Nurseries: For babies to age five. Open full days.
- Preschools or Playgroups: Short sessions for 2–4-year-olds.
- Childminders: Small numbers of children in a home setting.
- Nannies: Care in your home. Can be live-in or daily.
- Wraparound Care: Breakfast and after-school clubs.
- Holiday Clubs: For school-age kids in term breaks.
Make sure any provider is registered and inspected. That’s how you know they’re safe—and it means you can use government help to pay.
What Does Childcare Cost in the UK?
Costs vary a lot by region. Full-time nursery can cost over £1,200 a month in some areas. Part-time care costs less but adds up fast.
Help is available:
- 30 Free Hours: For 3–4-year-olds if parents work.
- 15 Free Hours: For some 2-year-olds.
- Tax-Free Childcare: For every £8 you pay in, the government adds £2.
- Universal Credit: Can cover up to 85% of childcare costs.
You have to choose the right scheme—some can’t be used together. Use GOV.UK’s childcare calculator to compare.
Why Taking Care of You Matters Too
You can’t pour from an empty cup. If you’re running on fumes, it’s hard to stay calm, make decisions, or enjoy time with your child. That’s why support for carers matters so much. It’s not a luxury. It’s survival.
Join parent networks. Take breaks when you can. Say yes to help. And if you feel lost, talk to your GP or a carers’ organisation. You’re not in this alone.
Final Thought: You’re Doing Enough
Many parent-carers feel guilt, doubt, or like they should be doing more. But the fact that you’re reading this, asking questions, and trying to understand how to become a carer for your child—that says everything.
You are already enough. But if you want more tools, more support, and a community that gets it, we’re here.
Build your skills and confidence with our flexible online Child Care Courses at Unified Course. Join thousands of UK parents growing with us.
