Carers Rights Day

2009 dec 4

FRIDAY 4TH DECEMBER 2009

Do you look after someone who is elderly, ill or disabled?

Thousands of people looking after sick or disabled relatives or friends at home may be missing out on vital benefits and support, which could have a big effect on their pensions.

Carers can find out more by making an appointment to talk with someone, in confidence, at special Carers Rights Day events organised by the Carers' Support Centre on Friday 4th December. The events will be held at either Scunthorpe or Barton Libraries from 10am to 4pm. Ring 01652 650585 to book your appointment now!

The focus of this year's Carers Rights Day is "Caring for your income and pension". The Carers' Support Centre, in conjunction with local benefits advisors, will be there to inform Carers of the rights, benefits and services they are entitled to.

Mike Humphries, Director of the Carers' Support Centre, said "Making ends meet is at the top of everyone's agenda at the moment, but Carers face a particularly tough battle to get by. On top of the stresses of caring for a loved one, Carers often have to cope with higher bills and the costs of caring whilst often being unable to work because of their caring responsibilities. I urge anyone looking after a friend or family member to come along to our events, where they can get advice and information on how to take care of their income".

It is vital Carers get the information, or get assessed for, benefits that are rightly theirs because:-

Shockingly, millions of Carers benefits are not claimed each year, while Carers across the country gut back on essentials like food, clothes and heating, to make ends meet

Carers may be missing out on a range of other discounts and benefits like Income Support, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit. Claiming the Carer's Allowance can help protect basic State Pension rights for Carers under 65 years of age

Help make Carers Rights Day matter. Last year, the events held nationally helped over 30,000 Carers.

There is a booklet entitled "Looking After Someone? – A guide to Carers' rights and benefits" which provides specialist advice to Carers. If you'd like a free copy please ring the Carers' Support Centre on 01652 650585.