The Department for Work and Pensions Parliamentary Select committee has published a report called 'Valuing and Suporting Carers'.

 

Paul Cann, Director of Policy at Help the Aged, says: 'The report shows how carers struggle to access the support they need while carrying out a valuable job.

'Carers save our health and social care systems billions of pounds and they deserve a better deal in return.

'Carers save our health and social care systems billions of pounds and they deserve a better deal in return

'There is a growing funding gap in our care system - and the Government must not shy away from filling it.'

Imelda Redmond, Chief Executive of Carers UK, says: 'As well as being insultingly low at just £50.55 per week, Carer’s Allowance does not recognise carers’ individual circumstances and discourages them from combining caring with paid work.

Carers need a benefit which recognises that they are not unemployed but are making an important contribution to society

'The two-tier benefit recommended by the committee would be a major improvement to the current system. Carers need a separate benefit which recognises that they are not unemployed but are making an important contribution to society.'

Stephen Burke, Chief Executive of Counsel & Care, comments: 'Too many carers have to give up work because of their caring responsibilities. We are delighted that the select committee has recognised the potential of care vouchers.'

Help the Aged, Carers UK and Counsel & Care are working together on the Right care Right deal campaign for brave and innovative solutions for the social care system.