Theresa May is backing Carers UK’s national carers’ rights campaign ahead of Carers Rights Day on Friday 5th December 2008.
There are over six million unpaid carers in the UK who provide care support to family, friends and neighbours, saving the country an estimated £87 billion each year. The Carers Rights Day campaign, run by Carers UK, seeks to increase the take-up of benefits and raise awareness of carers’ rights and the support that they may be able to get. It might be the Carer’s Allowance, meals on wheels, council tax discount or practical support caring that makes a difference.
Theresa said: “Carers play a vital role in our society and without them thousands of vulnerable people would not receive the care and support that they need. But carers themselves need support and it is essential that they are not living in poverty as a result of all their work. It is concerning that many carers in Maidenhead and the surrounding area may not be getting all the help that they are entitled to and we need to make sure that they are given information about their rights. That’s why I’m backing Carers Rights Day.”
Carers UK are urging carers to get in touch with its helpline, CarersLine (0808 808 7777 or www.carersuk.org). Imelda Redmond, Chief Executive said, “Nearly three quarters of carers are financially worse-off as a result of caring, with many falling into poverty and debt. Yet around £740 million per year in carers benefits go unclaimed. Carers must get clear information on what they are entitled to, and how to claim it.”
Carers can order a free booklet called Looking after someone: a guide to carers’ rights and benefits from Carers UK by visiting www.carersuk.org or calling the free phone hotline on 0808 808 7777.
