Government ‘protecting value of benefits for carers’

The government has stressed its commitment to making sure carers get enough financial support.

In April, the rate of carers’ allowance will go up from £81.90 a week to £83.30 a week.

But social security minister Sir Stephen Timms has reminded carers on low incomes that they can also claim other support, such as universal credit and pension credit.

The universal credit carer element is currently £198.31 per monthly assessment period. 

The additional amount for a carer in pension credit is £45.60 a week. 

Sir Stephen said: “These additional amounts are worth around £2,400 a year.

“This government continues to protect the value of benefits paid to carers, whilst also spending record amounts in real terms.”

People getting carer’s allowance ‘struggling to make ends meet’

According to Carers UK, 28% of unpaid carers are cutting back on essentials such as food and heating because of rising living costs.

That’s up from 25% in 2022.

Many are also turning to “unsustainable” solutions in order to make ends meet.

For example:

• 28% are using credit cards
• 22% are using their overdraft
• 4% are in debt because of their caring responsibilities

Struggling with your day-to-day costs?

If you’re a carer and you’re struggling with the cost of living, you don’t have to deal with it alone.

We’ve published a handy guide on what financial help you might be eligible for if you’re a carer.

You can also access our help online or over the phone.

We offer free and impartial advice help you:

• make sure you’re getting all the benefits you’re entitled to
• create a realistic budget you can stick to
• manage your debts

Some debt solutions are also free. For others, there’s a fee.