Figures show ‘cost’ of home caring
Figures show ‘cost’ of home caring
27 May. Updated: 27 May 10:13
The figures have led to calls from carers charities to re-examine financial support given to carers by the state and the Government’s planned cuts to disability benefits.
Research released by charity Carers UK revealed the county’s 61,620 carers will save social services and the NHS over £1billion in 2011, up 36 per cent compared with four years ago. The estimated 1,277 carers in Redditch contribute over £23million in savings to the overall total.
Each carer saves on average about £18,473 a year yet carers allowance amounts to less than £3,000 a year and is only available to those who provide 35 hours or more care per week and meet certain criteria. Other issues include the fact once a carer reaches retirement age and start receiving a state pension they are no longer recognised financially for their caring role, regardless of how many hours they do.
Many carers also do not claim the benefit either because they are unaware or feel it is too complex to apply for. Recent figures suggested carers in the borough were missing out on as much as £1.2million in unclaimed benefit.
Judy Adams, spokeswoman for Worcestershire Association of Carers, said without the unpaid contribution from family, friends and neighbours the Government and NHS would be unable to afford the enormous care costs which made carers one of the largest contributors to the Big Society.
“Many carers suffer significant reductions and impacts on their finances as a result of their caring roles,” she said.
“Whilst the county council and Primary Care Trust are committed to supporting carers and contribute substantial funds this does not fully reflect the amount unpaid carers save the county overall.”
Redditch MP Karen Lumley said she would be asking the Department of Work and Pensions if carers allowance could be looked at as part of the Government’s current reform of the benefits system.
“We do value carers massively. They make a significant contribution to society and one without which we would be struggling.”
Carers Action Worcestershire, a consortium which includes Redditch Carers Careline, provides a range of service to support to carers including dedicated helplines, newsletters, support groups and practical sessions.
Various events are being held across the county as part of Carers Week between June 13 to 19 and carers are urged to get involved. For more information on events and support services available email mail@carersworcs.org.uk or contact 0300 012 4272.
