Hard evidence

Carers are being short changed by an outdated benefits system that doesn’t recognise their contribution. Over a million people are caring unpaid for family and friends for more than 50 hours a week. For many this makes it impossible to live a normal life – to get or keep a paid job or just enjoy their retirement. In return, all carers can expect is Carer’s Allowance of just £53 per week. Benefit rules mean some, especially those over 65, even miss out on this.

 Carers UK is calling on the Government to take a fresh look at benefits for carers that will :

• Help carers work Having to give up work is a direct cause of carer poverty. Carers lose income and through loss of pensions are storing up future poverty.
• Help carers who are unable to work For some carers work is not an option. The level of skill and care they provide simply cannot be replaced.
• Help older carers enjoy a decent retirement Carers lose their Carers Allowance when they reach retirement as the benefit is seen simply as an income replacement. Yet they continue to provide care with little or no recognition.

How does caring affect your finances?

3,000 carers gave Carers UK a detailed picture of how caring affects their finances. Our research has found that :

• Three out of four (72%) carers are worse off as a result of caring
• Half (52%) are cutting back on food just to make ends meet
  
• More than half (54%) have given up work to care.
• On average carers retire 8 years early, missing out on years of income and pensions contributions.
• Half (50%) are, or have been, in debt as a result of caring.
• Three-quarters (74%) struggle to pay utility bills such as electricity, gas or telephone.
• A third (32%) of those paying a rent or mortgage say they cannot afford to pay it.