Hi, I'm spurs999! Can I claim carers allowance for myself?

spurs999

my wife is mearnt to be my carer but she dont really care for me as such.can i claim it for myself even though i get pip as i have menal health issues therefore the carers money if i could get it could go towards private help with trying to help to make me better well maybe get better need a person who can cure my panic attacks etc.

poppy123456

Hi,
Unfortunately, you can’t claim carers allowance for looking after yourself. 

Cher_Alumni

Hi @spurs999 and a warm welcome to our community.  How are you today?

I've amended the title of your thread to help others spot your question, and hope I'm right in thinking you're referring to carers allowance and if you're entitled to payment rather than your wife?  Please let me know if I've misinterpreted your words so I can correct

You can't claim carer's allowance for yourself I'm afraid, rather it is open to individuals who look after someone for 35 hours+ a week, dependent on other qualifying criteria.  See this government webpage for more details.  

Have you talked to your wife about any unattended needs you have that she can help with?  Also, have you spoken with your GP about your panic attacks and options open to you in terms of getting help?  

You can refer yourself online to your local Improving Access to Psychological Therapies service who will carry out an assessment and explore treatment options with you too, i.e. counselling and CBT although there are unfortunately lengthy waiting times to be seen.  Do you have any coping strategies for your panic attacks at the moment?  

I hope you have a nice rest of the day and please ask away with any other questions you might have.