Published: 09 December 2004
Caring for Carers
Carers across the country, who have caring responsibilities of 35 hours a week or more, have been urged to think about their own needs and claim Carer's Allowance, if they think they could be entitled.
To mark Carers Rights Day, the Minister for Disabled People Maria Eagle recognised carers for their role and encouraged them to claim any help they could be entitled to.
Maria Eagle said:
''Carers provide invaluable support to disabled friends and relatives and make a vital contribution to their community.
Carers Rights Day helps to raise their profile and recognition by putting a spotlight on their achievements.
All too often carers can forget about their own needs.
This is why the Government has provided support through Carer's Allowance, the Carer Premium and the extra amount for carers within Pension Credit, from which thousands of carers are already benefiting.
Carers don't have much spare time on their hands which is why the online application may be a more convenient way for them to apply. More and more customers are choosing the user friendly online service since it was introduced last year.
You can also claim by post, or at your local Jobcentre Plus office. Advice is also available from the Disability Benefits Enquiry Line."
Carer's Rights Day is run by Carer's UK. Chief Executive Imelda Redmond added:
''Our new report shows that carers are twice as likely to suffer ill-health if they are caring full time and yet information about their benefits and entitlements can make such a difference.
Getting the right information is the first step to ensuring that carers get the right support, which can positively affect carers' health. This is a key purpose of Carers Rights Day.
It's also one year precisely since the DWP made it possible for carers to claim Carer's Allowance on-line. So far, it has made a real difference to many carers and to our specialist advisers on CarersLine.
Anything that makes it easier to get your entitlements and is more flexible to changes, like this, is a real bonus."
The Carer's Allowance online claim form built on other improvements including a higher earnings threshold and eliminating the age limit.
Carers can also benefit from the Second State Pension. The Government works closely with Carer's UK and other organisations on legislation affecting carers.
Carers Allowance is £44.35 a week and an addition for a dependant adult can be claimed. It can be paid to carers over 16 who provide regular and substantial care for a severely disabled person (receiving the middle or highest rate of Disability Living Allowance care component, Attendance Allowance, or the equivalent rates of Constant Attendance Allowance).
Carers must care for at least 35 hours per week. Some part time work and study is allowed.
Further information:
The Carers Allowance e-Service
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