Preston offers a few different kinds of support for carers, depending on the situation. The main ones shown in council information are a Council Tax discount for qualifying carers, support for residential care workers in certain cases, and wider welfare advice and benefits help.
| Support | What it is | Who it may help | How to apply / get help |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carers Council Tax discount | Council Tax may be reduced if one resident is providing care to another household member | You must live in the same dwelling as the person receiving care, provide care for an average of 35 hours per week, and the person cared for must receive a qualifying disability-related benefit | Complete the Carers Council Tax discount form |
| Residential Care Workers discount | A Council Tax discount for some residential care workers | The worker must meet the employer, hours, pay, and accommodation conditions set out by Preston | Complete the Residential Care Workers discount form |
| Council Tax Support / Exceptional Hardship Fund | Extra help with council tax in some cases | People on low incomes may qualify for Council Tax Support; the Exceptional Hardship Fund is for cases of extreme hardship only and requires Council Tax Support already | See the council’s Council Tax Support and Exceptional Hardship Fund pages |
| Welfare and benefits advice | Help with benefits, appeals, and money advice | Carers who need help understanding what they may be entitled to | Contact the Welfare Benefits Advice department, Citizens Advice Bureau, Money Advice Service, or Lancashire County Council’s Welfare Rights Service |
There’s also mention of support for low-income unpaid carers through the Household Support Fund, with payments of up to £100 per household for costs like food, transport, housing or clothing. If you’re looking for practical help beyond Council Tax, Preston’s welfare advice routes are probably the best place to start.