The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed new eligibility rules for Carer's Allowance in a BBC interview. DWP minister Sir Stephen Timms, representing the Labour Party government, spoke on BBC Radio Five Live today, outlining key changes to the benefit system for unpaid carers.
Increased Earnings Threshold Opens Claims for 60,000 More Carers
Sir Stephen announced that a major change to Carer's Allowance is the increase in the earnings threshold. This adjustment alone will enable an extra 60,000 carers to claim the benefit, according to the DWP minister. He emphasized the value of unpaid carers, stating: "We owe a huge amount to these unpaid carers. They're doing a fantastic job obviously looking after the people who they're caring but actually they're doing a great job for all of us and we want to do a better job in supporting them."
Additional Financial Support Available
Sir Stephen noted that Carer's Allowance is not the only financial support provided. Over a million people currently receive Carer's Allowance, but additional support is available through Universal Credit for working-age individuals and Pension Credit for those above state pension age. The Daily Living Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), paid to the person being cared for, is also a trigger benefit for Carer's Allowance.
Review of Personal Independence Payment Underway
Speaking in the House of Commons last week, Sir Stephen addressed the ongoing review of PIP. He confirmed that the government has no plans to change the link between PIP's Daily Living Component and Carer's Allowance. The review is being co-produced with disabled people, their representative organizations, carers, clinicians, experts, MPs, and other stakeholders to ensure a wide range of perspectives are considered.
Sir Stephen stated: "This means the Government will share ownership and responsibility for how the Review runs and what it recommends. We are committed to supporting disabled people in living independent and fulfilling lives, and this will mean spending public money as effectively as possible. As such, the Review will operate within the OBR’s projections for future PIP expenditure, ensuring sustainability while continuing to provide meaningful support."
