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In 2010 social care is in crisis and in need of urgent reform. The main carers' benefit is worth just £1.52 an hour, well short of the minimum wage of £5.73. (and even less than that if you're retired, disabled or on a low income).
Carers are paying a heavy price - no money, no breaks, many forced to give up work and a constant battle for support. Some are pushed to the point of collapse.
The government has invested in carers' breaks and other support for carers. But this falls far short of the action needed now if it is to make good on its promise that by 2018 carers will have a life of their own and not be forced into financial hardship.
Prior to the May General Election Carers UK's "It's time" campaign collected signatures from over 3,500 carers who all wanted to tell the new Prime Minister it's time to support carers. In addition, hundreds of carers took part in our virtual protest and sent in photos of their messages and slogans. During Carers Week we handed over those signatures and photos to David Cameron.
Visit the Virtual protest website and see carers photos and slogans.
If you would like to support the campaign and get updates on the latest developments affecting carers please join our email list.