Local MP calls for assistance for pensioner carers

North Ayrshire and Arran MP Katy Clark has called for carers’ allowance to be paid to pensioners.

Sep 21 2012 by Ross Dunn, Irvine Herald

The MP tabled an Early Day Motion in Parliament, calling for pensioners to be paid a carers’ allowance.

Carers allowance is currently withdrawn from carers once they’re eligible for state pension, with some pensioners qualifying for additional support, depending on financial circumstances.

It is estimated there are around 2.8 million carers over the age of 50 years in the United Kingdom. Research from Age UK suggests about one quarter of all carers provide 50 or more hours of informal care weekly.

Miss Clark said: “Carers provide an incredible contribution to society, allowing disabled people to live their lives with dignity. Often carers have to make immense personal sacrifice, especially older carers.”

http://www.irvineherald.co.uk/ayrshire-news/