In light of the Government’s recent proposals to reform the welfare system and cut public spending, Carers Trust is urging policymakers not to overlook the vital role of unpaid carers – and the financial risks they now face.
With Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall announcing changes aimed at saving £5bn, including tighter eligibility for Personal Independence Payments (PIP), alarm bells are ringing across the carer community. These changes could deeply affect the nearly half a million unpaid carers who look after someone receiving PIP, and the 150,000 who rely on both PIP and Carer’s Allowance.
Carers Trust CEO Kirsty McHugh made a heartfelt plea in response to the proposals:
“In the midst of today’s announcements on welfare reform, we cannot lose sight of the nation’s carers. Two-thirds of carers have been forced to give up work or cut back on hours because of their caring role.”
“Many would like to work if they were able to access flexible jobs and the right employment support – sadly this is rarely on offer. But for many carers, work isn’t an option – either because of the toll of their caring role or their own ill health.” she continued.
The government says these reforms are about “getting Britain working,” but for many carers, that phrase rings hollow. As McHugh warns,
“Proposals to tighten eligibility criteria for benefits will strike fear into the heart of many carers. Around half a million carers look after someone receiving Personal Independence Payments (PIP), and nearly 150,000 people rely on both PIP and Carer’s Allowance.”
McHugh also highlighted the broader danger:
“Disabled people and their carers are already among the most vulnerable in our society and more likely to live in poverty. Reducing their access to a financial safety net could push them over the edge.”
Carers Trust welcomes the government’s promise to consider the impact of these changes on carers, but as McHugh concluded:
“Carers already prop up our ailing health and social care system and we cannot introduce welfare changes that leave carers again picking up the pieces.”
If this news has worried you, or you would like to talk about money, finances or benefits please contact our Carer Money Matters Team. We provide free advice and practical support to help you understand and access the financial support you’re entitled to. This includes everything from energy debt, to budgeting to CV writing. You don’t have to navigate this alone Carer Support Wiltshire and our Carer Money Matters team are here to ensure you get the support you deserve.
To contact us please email admin@carersupportdorset.co.uk or leave a message on 0800 368 8349. You can also come along to any of our Financial Wellness Hubs which you can find listed here.
