Politicians warned at Carers Trust drop-in event that 'carers are in crisis'

At a Parliamentary drop-in session hosted by Carers Trust, politicians have heard directly from carers and the local carer organisations that support them about the challenges they face and the help they need.

Nine carers, supported by six carer organisations from the Carers Trust network, attended the 4th December event and spoke to more than 30 Parliamentarians. Among the MPs attending were Work and Pensions Minister, Stephen Timms, and Lib Dem Spokesperson for Care and Carers, Alison Bennett.

Carers shared their personal stories about the financial challenges they face and what the Government can do to make a meaningful difference to their lives.

Currently, 29% of carers are living in poverty - a significantly higher rate than for those not in a caring role. To help lift carers out of poverty, Carers Trust is advocating for changes in social security, enhanced employment support, and increased funding for local welfare assistance schemes.

Julie (pictured below), a carer for her whole family who is supported by Carers in Bedfordshire, said: “I hope every MP understands that carers are in crisis and if nothing is done we will have a national disaster.”

Becky cares for her mum, who has Multiple Sclerosis, and is supported by Carers Hartlepool.  She explained how, when her mum was given funding for 24-hour care in a home, she lost her benefits and access to a wheelchair accessible vehicle.

Becky said: “I would love to have family time out and about in the car and to take Mam away for the Christmas markets in Manchester. But, realistically, it’s just not going to happen. I will fight and find a way to give Mam the opportunity to live her life to the fullest and help make changes to the world if I can. She is only 58 years young and too young to give up yet.”

The event was also a chance for Carers Trust to promote the Carer Money Matters programme, which is being run with 23 local carer organisations. This programme will enable carer organisations to expand or launch their income maximisation services – helping carers to receive the benefits they are entitled to, reduce essential costs and get the financial support they need.

The £4 million programme will connect carers to extra support from their energy supplier, such as help with meter readings, advance warnings of supply interruptions and tips to reduce their bills.

Caroline from North Tyneside Carers Centre (pictured above) explained: “Parent carers are really struggling with high energy and food costs but they’re too frightened to ask for help. With Carer Money Matters, we’re able to get carers out of crisis really quickly. It’s been a game changer for us.”

Ramzi Suleiman, Policy and Public Affairs Manager at Carers Trust, said: “We know that carers are more likely to live in poverty than those not in a caring role. Recent changes to Carer’s Allowance are a good step forward but should only be the first stage in a much wider range of reforms that will prevent carers from living in poverty in the first place. Carers spend their lives caring for others. It’s vital that they have the financial support they need to lead a good quality life alongside caring.”