Children's services
In addition to support from adult social care services, you and your child may also be entitled to support from children's social care services.
In England, local authorities have a duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of any children 'in need' and their families under section 17 of the Children Act 1989. This automatically includes disabled children and any child whose health or development is likely to be negatively affected if the local authority doesn't provide support.
The fact that you have a mental health problem won't automatically mean that your child is in need. The local authority has to carry out an assessment of your child's needs to decide this.
In Wales, local authorities have a duty to assess children who may need care and support under section 21 of the Social Services and Wellbeing (Wales) Act 2014. They must meet the needs of children and adults who meet the statutory eligibility criteria.
Children who perform caring roles are likely to meet the criteria for being a child in need, in recognition that the role can often impact on their health and development.
Adult and children's services should work together in assessing your family's needs.
