FROM April 12, 2010 Carer’s Allowance, the only state benefit specifically aimed at carers, will be made available to a greater number of those who are working.
Carer’s Allowance cannot be paid to a carer if they work and earn more than a set amount. The government has announced that this earnings limit will be raised from £95 to £100 after tax deductions - the first time it has been changed since 2007.
For working families caring for a disabled child, the Carer’s Allowance rules allow certain childcare costs to be deducted from earnings, so some may qualify even though they are earning slightly more than £100 per week.
It’s good news for working carers in Swindon who provide 35 hours a week of care but are just missing out on Carer’s Allowance.
From April, Carer’s Allowance will rise from £53.10 per week to £53.90.
Contact a Family supports families who care for a disabled child. Working families with disabled children are under enormous pressure juggling their employment and caring responsibilities. It is vital that they ensure they are getting all the financial support available to them.
Contact a Family’s free helpline can advise families with disabled children who want to know if the change in the rules will help them claim Carer’s Allowance. Call 0808 808 3555.
SRABANI SEN
Chief Executive Contact a Family
City Road
London
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article