The person you care for will be asked about their finances. They do not have to answer, but may be charged the full amount if not.

Carers can be charged for services for themselves and may be asked questions about their finances. Charging varies, but all social services must make sure:

• the charges are 'reasonable';
• they only charge what people can afford;
• no one is caused hardship or denied a service they need because they cannot pay;
• they consider the person's extra costs as a result of disability or ill health;
• they reduce or drop a charge that would cause hardship; and
• the mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance is not taken into account.

Social services can make a 'reasonable charge' for services to disabled children and their families. The following must be provided free:

• Advice, guidance and counselling services
• Services to families on Income Support or Job Seeker's Allowance.